Join the exciting world of VC startup scouting in Hong Kong! Discover promising startups before anyone else and play a pivotal role in shaping their success. Enjoy unparalleled networking opportunities while honing your entrepreneurial skills.
As of 2021, Hong Kong has a vibrant startup and venture capital ecosystem. According to InvestHKโs 2020 startup survey, the city is home to around 3,360 startups, an increase of 51% from 2017. Among these firms, the key business sectors include Fintech, E-commerce, Supply chain management, and Professional services or Consulting.
The government of Hong Kong is actively supporting the startup ecosystem by implementing programs such as Cyberport, the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund (ITVF), and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP). The Cyberport, being a major initiative, holds about 400 tech companies and startups. It not only provides spaces for startups but also holds events and provides funding for firms.
As for venture capital, 2020 saw a total of US$ 741 million invested into Hong Kong-based companies across 88 deals, according to the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (HKVCA). The Association is also known for promoting and protecting the interests of the venture capital industry in Hong Kong.
A standout success story in the ecosystem includes fintech company WeLab, founded by Simon Loong in 2013. The startup provides a variety of prime credit products to the underserved consumers and small businesses. In total, they have raised over US$ 580 million from investors including Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund and Sequoia Capital. Another example is SenseTime, an innovative startup specializing in AI-backed technologies. Founded by Xu Li in 2014, SenseTime now stands as one of the most valuable AI startups in the world, valued at over US$ 4.5 billion.
The presence of a large pool of investors both local and international is another distinguishing characteristic of the Hong Kong startup scene. Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund and Sequoia Capital China have been instrumental in funding and accelerating startups in Hong Kong.
Showing your skills in picking successful startups and advising founders is the surest way to build your reputation and secure a venture capital role.
Explore โYour community, region, or group thrives when its founders are given the chance to succeed before going back and reinvesting in their comunities.
Explore โEarn a share in startups you scout without the funds to invest directly just like a VC partner.
Explore โAs a podcaster, community manager, or event organiser you have a front-row seat to interesting startups which you can monetise by helping them fundraise.
Explore โBy identifying under-represented founders you're level the playing field for anyone to success based on merit independent from their social or ethnic background.
Explore โHelp your friends who are neck-deep in their startups get the funding they need to succeed.
Explore โConnect with the Hong Kong startup ecosystem and get exclusive access to opportunities from individuals, startups, and innovations. Invest in the future now.
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