Hong Kong Start-ups Shine at VivaTech 2026, Forge European Partnerships

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), alongside strategic partners, hosted the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion at VivaTech 2026 in Paris, showcasing 24 local innovation and technology enterprises. The pavilion aimed to connect start-ups with global investors and industry players, facilitating cross-border collaborations and expanding their reach into European markets.

Participating start-ups gained significant recognition. Formwork IO, a developer of carbon-negative construction materials, was selected as a top 30 finalist for VivaTech's "Tech for Change" Award, which honors start-ups using technology for environmental, social, or health impact. Additionally, PointFit Technology and Robocore Technology Limited were chosen to present live demonstrations at VivaTech's Discovery Stage, highlighting Hong Kong's capabilities in health technology and artificial intelligence.

The pavilion yielded concrete results. Robocore Technology, which first connected with JCDecaux at VivaTech 2025, is now negotiating a cooperation agreement to supply 1,000 robots for marketing campaigns. LeafIoT Technology Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lecco Campus of Politecnico di Milano to collaborate on smart tree monitoring solutions, aiming to accelerate expansion into Europe. These outcomes underscore the effectiveness of the platform in fostering lasting business relationships.

Chris Lo, HKTDC's Regional Director for Europe, Central Asia & Israel, noted that the pavilion facilitated multiple cross-border collaborations, with some outcomes stemming from connections made the previous year. He emphasized the HKTDC's role in helping local start-ups build networks and increase international exposure.

During VivaTech, the HKTDC hosted seminars, pitching sessions, and networking events. Shirley Yung, Special Representative for Hong Kong Economic & Trade Affairs to the EU, spoke at a seminar on building resilient tech ecosystems, highlighting Hong Kong's advantages in research, capital, access to the Greater Bay Area, and global connectivity. A discussion featuring Terry Wong from HKSTP and Yonghai Du from HKPC further explored how Hong Kong serves as a springboard for European companies to enter Asian markets.

VivaTech 2026 attracted participants from over 165 countries, with more than 15,000 start-ups and 200,000 visitors. The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion is part of the "Economic and Trade Express" initiative, supported by the Brussels ETO, HKTDC, and InvestHK, providing targeted support for tech start-ups to explore European markets.

For more information, visit the HKTDC Media Room.