City University of Hong Kong (Dongguan) (CityUHK (DG)) hosted the final round of the HK Tech 300 National Start-up Competition in its Dongguan division on 24 April 2025. 

This marked the first time Dongguan has been integrated into the mainland competitions, with 15 standout projects competing in areas such as advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and new materials. Around 150 attendees, including representatives from academia, investment firms, and industry groups, joined the event.

Among the finalists, Hunan Qiangxin Technology Co. secured the top prize with its pioneering industrial laser micro-grooving machine. 

HK Tech 300, launched by City University of Hong Kong in 2021, is a flagship programme aimed at bridging research and industry through innovation. With over HK$600 million in funding, the initiative has supported more than 900 startups, positioning itself as a leading entrepreneurial platform in Asia.

Dongguan’s robust manufacturing base and focus on technological advancement make it a vital link in the HK-mainland collaboration. Recent initiatives, such as the establishment of the CityUHK (DG) Science Innovation Centre at Songshan Lake in 2024, aim to integrate Hong Kong’s research strengths with Dongguan’s industrial capabilities. 

This year’s competition theme, “Create in the Greater Bay Area, Innovate in Dongguan,” highlights this synergy. Winning projects are eligible for up to HK$1 million in angel investment alongside tailored support from Dongguan’s government and industrial ecosystem, enabling seamless integration into local supply chains.