Eunice Lam

Seventeen startups founded by people aged 35 or younger have been granted a seven-month, rent-free opportunity to operate in Housing Authority malls.

The initiative aims to encourage and support young entrepreneurs in pursuing their startup dreams.

The "Well Being Start-Up" program allows them to set up shops or pop-up stores in seven malls and comes with assistance on renovations and promotions.

The malls are Domain Mall in Yau Tong; shopping centers Kai Chuen in Kai Tak, Hoi Lai in Cheung Sha Wan, Kwai Chung, Lei Muk Shue in Tsuen Wan, Queens Hill in Fan Ling; and Shui Chuen O Plaza in Sha Tin.

During the rent-free period, if participants generate revenue, the authority will collect 20 percent of the net profit, which will be reinvested into the program to ensure its sustainability.The scheme, which closed on August 31, received 180 applications.

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin said "creating a pathway for entrepreneurs under the authority will allow them to develop their careers, test market responses and explore new ideas.

"Whileproviding a platform for young people to showcase their products and designs, the program also aims to attract more visitors to the shopping malls."

Permanent Secretary for Housing and Director of Housing Rosanna Law Shuk-pui expressed hope that the authority would provide a platform for young entrepreneurs to grow their businesses.

"While the current platform may seem small, it could lead to larger venues like the Hong Kong Coliseum or the Kai Tak main stadium in the future," she said.

Among the 17 are startups, local fashion brands and a 24-hour smart pharmacy.

Chan Chui-ying, cofounder of GreenBox Technology and a third-year student at Metropolitan University, said her firm plans to operate pop-up stores at malls to better understand consumer habits regarding recyclable tableware.

She envisions a network where customers can rent recyclable silicone lunchboxes at restaurants, with her firm responsible for washing and sanitizing the boxes upon their return at designated points.

Wind.n.Sand will open its first shop at Kai Chuen Shopping Centre in Kai Tak, selling handmade accessories crafted from upcycled coffee capsules.

Founder Charlotte Wong Ka-man said the scheme has accelerated young entrepreneurs' ability to realize their dreams."Opening a shop today can be challenging, but this rent-free scheme has allowed me to explore business and pursue my passion," she said.

At the announcement are, from left, Rosanna Law, Winnie Ho and Charlotte Wong.

Young startups get rent-free shot at opening mall shops