A Hong Kong-incorporated company may apply to set up a new production line whose whole or significant portion meets the smart-manufacturing criteria. Support is capped at one-third of approved project cost or HK$15 million per project, whichever is lower, and a project normally finishes within 24 months.
Describe the production system, not a shopping list
The official criteria look for integrated and intelligent use of technologies such as real-time data, analytics, automation, robotics, sensors and advanced human-machine interfaces. Show how material, machine and quality data move through the line and change day-to-day decisions.
A proposal is easier to test when it includes baseline cycle time, defect rate, labour input or energy use, followed by target figures and the method used to measure them.
Build the full Hong Kong operating case
The line must be established in Hong Kong. The application should therefore deal with premises, utilities, installation access, permits, staffing, supply continuity and the path from commissioning to stable production—not just equipment quotations.
Eligible scope can include machinery, installation and commissioning, technical consultancy, relevant testing and training, certain patent registration costs, audits and specified legal costs. Use the latest guide for limits and procurement rules.
Plan for the years after completion
Unless prior written approval is obtained, a funded line cannot simply be moved out of Hong Kong or transferred after completion. The restriction is generally five years where NIFS funding is HK$5 million or above and three years below that level.
Primary sources
These links are published by the programme operator or responsible authority. Recheck them immediately before applying.
Reviewed by the HK Grant Resource editorial desk on 4 August 2026 against the primary sources above.
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