Hong Kong Launches Third InnoHK Research Cluster to Boost Emerging Industries

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with the Innovation and Technology Commission, officially launched the third InnoHK research cluster, SEAM@InnoHK, at Hong Kong Science Park. The new cluster focuses on sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials, and is led by top local and international academic institutions. This initiative underscores Hong Kong's commitment to becoming a global innovation and technology hub, with significant implications for emerging industries and cross-border research collaboration.

The launch ceremony was attended by key government officials and academic leaders, including Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, and Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP. The cluster brings together eight research centers involving over 30 prestigious universities and institutions, including the University of Cambridge, EPFL, Nagoya University, and Tsinghua University. Notably, three centers feature collaborations with Nobel laureates, such as Professor Ben L. Feringa, Sir Konstantin Novoselov, and Professor Hiroshi Amano, highlighting the cluster's global scientific excellence.

The establishment of SEAM@InnoHK is a critical step in Hong Kong's strategy to diversify its economy and drive innovation in key sectors. By focusing on sustainable development and advanced manufacturing, the cluster aims to address pressing global challenges while creating new opportunities for commercialization and economic growth. The integration of world-class research talent and advanced infrastructure is expected to accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies that can be scaled for industrial impact.

HKSTP, as the largest innovation ecosystem in Hong Kong, will provide comprehensive support to the research centers, including access to state-of-the-art facilities, talent pools, and investor networks. This support is designed to facilitate the transformation of research findings into practical applications, strengthening Hong Kong's position as a leader in the region's innovation landscape. The cluster's focus on areas like renewable energy, power semiconductors, and smart manufacturing aligns with global trends and positions Hong Kong to play a pivotal role in shaping future industries.

The launch of SEAM@InnoHK also reflects the Hong Kong government's broader vision to develop the city into a global hub for scientific research cooperation. Together with the existing Health@InnoHK and AIR@InnoHK clusters, this new initiative enriches the city's research ecosystem and fosters collaboration between academia and industry. The success of these clusters is expected to drive technology transfer, startup incubation, and the growth of the innovation and technology sector, ultimately contributing to Hong Kong's economic resilience and competitiveness.

As Hong Kong continues to invest in its innovation infrastructure, the launch of SEAM@InnoHK signals a strong commitment to advancing emerging industries and pioneering future innovation. The cluster's multidisciplinary approach and international partnerships are set to yield significant societal benefits, reinforcing Hong Kong's status as a dynamic and forward-looking hub for research and development.