Hong Kong’s innovation landscape is experiencing a transformative boost through a strategic partnership between the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and China Resources Group. Their collaborative initiative, ‘Beyond Dreams,’ is reshaping how global talent connects with cutting-edge startups across multiple high-growth technological sectors.
The program has been steadily expanding, with this year marking its fifth iteration and placing interns in 88 HKSTP startups. These opportunities span diverse technological domains including artificial intelligence, robotics, biomedicine, smart city solutions, and financial technology. What makes this initiative unique is its truly international approach, attracting talent from regions like Mainland China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
For participating startups, the benefits are substantial. Take E3A Healthcare, a women’s health company that relocated from Singapore to HKSTP in 2021. Co-founder Harry Chen has found immense value in accessing top-tier university talent through the program. Similarly, PONG Product Design experienced direct innovation through their Stanford intern Mai Mahmoud Mostafa, who contributed technical expertise to their coffee-brewing app while providing critical Western market insights.
The initiative goes beyond simple internship placements. The China Booster sub-programme, for instance, provides mainland market exposure to startup teams, while the Global Talent Ignite initiative offers funding to attract overseas Hong Kong students and graduates. This strategic approach leverages Hong Kong’s unique “One Country, Two Systems” framework, creating a distinctive gateway for innovation and international business connections.
Students themselves are discovering remarkable opportunities. Bosco Yeung, a UC Berkeley bioengineering student, is now on his second HKSTP internship, helping local companies navigate complex cultural and regulatory landscapes. His peer Josh Wong joined through Yeung’s recommendation, highlighting the program’s growing reputation among university students.
The international interns are equally enthusiastic about Hong Kong’s potential. Yang Shuhan, a robotics engineer from Oxford, was drawn to the city’s growing innovation ecosystem. She appreciated the blend of international best practices and access to mainland opportunities. Mai Mahmoud Mostafa noted the supportive environment, contrasting it with more competitive international ecosystems and expressing interest in potentially launching her own venture in Hong Kong after her internship.
HKSTP’s strategic vision is clear. As Chief Talent Officer Fanny Wong explains, early engagement with Hong Kong’s innovation landscape significantly increases the likelihood of talented interns returning to contribute professionally after graduation. The city’s strong legal framework and robust intellectual property protections make it an attractive destination for emerging entrepreneurs.
The program’s impact was celebrated during the “A Globe Party” event at Science Park, where global interns connected and shared their experiences. HKSTP Chief Executive Officer Albert Wong encouraged participants to make meaningful impacts and build lasting friendships, underscoring the program’s commitment to nurturing not just professional skills, but also cross-cultural understanding.
By bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, ‘Beyond Dreams’ is more than an internship program—it’s a comprehensive talent cultivation strategy. It connects startups with global perspectives, provides students with hands-on experience, and positions Hong Kong as a dynamic center of technological innovation.
As the initiative continues to grow, it promises to play a crucial role in developing the next generation of tech leaders, creating a vibrant ecosystem where international talent, local innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit converge.
