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What is S-KPF?

S-KPF is a structured programme with seed funding and incubation services for CUHK academics to transform social innovation ideas into social enterprises, which are eventually supported by self-generated income, external investors and other funding sources. From nurturing ideas to developing a business canvas, competitive analysis and go-to-market strategy, we accompany teams in embracing challenges and opportunities in the early start-up stage, helping create values and social impact for a sustainable society.

Funding Amount

Up to HK$600,000 for 2 years

Support

  • Business development consultancy
  • Publicity and media engagement support
  • Partnership liaison

Check out successful cases

Eligibility

  • Project Leader must be full-time CUHK staff on professoriate or research academic ranks. Other teaching staff will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • All CUHK staff, students and non-CUHK members may join as team members.

Assessment Criteria

30%
Social impact of the proposed business
20%
Track record of the Project Leader and expertise of team members
20%
Relevance to underpinning research and innovativeness
20%
Viability and business readiness (i.e. business model, product-market fit)
10%
Potential to attract investment (for company limited by shares) or grant from private foundation or government (for company limited by guarantee)

How to Apply?

Go to ORKTS website for more details

ORKTS

Important Dates

OCT 2021
Call for proposals
LATE OCT 2021
Information Session
26 NOV 2021
Submission deadline
JAN 2022
Vetting Interview
MAR 2022
Results announcement
1 APR 2022
Project commencement

FAQs

What kind of projects will be funded by S-KPF?

S-KPF accepts all applications which align with funding objectives such as poverty alleviation, social inclusion and Sustainable Development Goals under the United Nations.

What is the amount of the fund and supporting period?

An S-KPF project may receive a maximum of $600,000 for up to two years, capped at $400,000 for the first year. Funding for the second year is subjected to performance of the project team in the first year and competition with other S-KPF applications. Unspent funding from the first year can be carried forward, upon successful application and approval in its second year.

Who are the targeted applicants of S-KPF?

Any eligible staff with a social entrepreneurial mindset who attempts to tackle social problems with his or her expertise through creative and sustainable business solutions.

What is a social enterprise?

A social enterprise can be defined as any business that targets a specific social mission. “Double Bottom Line” is often used to describe the unique nature of social enterprise which seeks balance between purpose and profit. Unlike ordinary social services, a social enterprise has a clear business model and needs to be self-sustainable. Yet, unlike an ordinary business entity, a social enterprise is driven by its social mission and strives to make impact in the society.

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