FAQ
1.How can I apply for EPiC?

Applying for EPiC is a breeze! We've streamlined the process to cater both local and global startups. Pick one of the options below to unlock your startup's full potential:

  1. Hong Kong-based Companies:
    If your company is registered in Hong Kong, apply HERE.
  2. International Companies:
    For those registered outside Hong Kong, we've partnered with an exceptional Strategic Partner – Plug and Play to ensure a seamless experience. Just head over to our strategic partner's website HERE.
2.Who is eligible to apply for EPiC 2024?

EPiC 2024 is the place to be for dynamic mid to late-stage startups from all corners of the globe.

If your business meets the following criteria, nothing should stop you from hitting Apply Now!

  • Your company will have been established for less than 10 years as of 30 April 2024.
  • Your company is built on innovations in FinTech, PropTech, or MobilityTech.

To submit your application, please use the appropriate online form:

  • If your company is registered in Hong Kong, please apply HERE.
  • For companies registered outside Hong Kong, click HERE to submit your application.
3.What do the terms FinTech, PropTech, and MobilityTech refer to?

Great question! We're glad you asked. Let's dive into each category to give you a better understanding:


FinTech

The banking and finance industry is a cornerstone to our economy, providing the source of capital to operate. From global to local, from public to private, good governance is important for safeguarding the trust and confidence of the public.

Our focuses include but are not limited to:

  1. AI
  2. Digital Assets
  3. Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)
  4. Regulatory Technology (Regtech)
  5. Web 3.0

PropTech

PropTech is revolutionising every phase of the building lifecycle from design and construction through operation to its eventual demolition. Show us how you disrupt planning, efficiency, sustainability and safety to bring a better experience for all.

Our focuses include but are not limited to:

  1. Green Materials and Clean Energy
  2. Digitalised Work Flow Management
  3. Smart Monitoring and Precaution
  4. Automated Inspection and Operation
  5. Waste Management

MobilityTech

MobilityTech is all about enhancing the flow of people and goods using advanced transport and logistics systems.

It plays a crucial role in ensuring reliable connectivity, which is vital for the smooth functioning and livelihood of our communities.

Our focuses include but are not limited to:

  1. Electrification
  2. Route Optimisation
  3. Sustainability
  4. Warehouse
  5. Data Collaboration
4.Is it possible to apply if I haven't established a company yet?

We’re currently only open to registered businesses. Individuals are not eligible.

5.Am I allowed to apply if I have previously participated in similar competitions organised by HKSTP?

Absolutely! Taking part in our previous competitions does not disqualify you from EPiC 2024. We welcome startups from diverse backgrounds. As long as your startup meets the eligibility criteria stated in Question 2, we want you in this exciting competition!

6.My company is not registered under my name in Hong Kong. Can I apply?

Not a problem. An eligible company can nominate a representative to participate in the pitch, as long as your company meets the criteria stated in Question 2.

7.Will submitting the voluntary introductory material and video increase my chance of being selected?

While submitting the voluntary introductory material and video is not a guarantee of shortlisting, it's an excellent opportunity to make a lasting impression on the judges. These additional materials provide a deeper insight into you and your company, allowing the judges to better understand your vision, passion, and unique business ideas. It can certainly enhance your overall application and positively impact the evaluation process.

8.Is there an application fee that needs to be paid?

Nope. The only thing you have to pay is paying attention to the submission deadline!

1.How do the judges evaluate the applications?

The judges evaluate the applications based on several key criteria to identify the most promising startups. Here's what they assess:

  • Uniqueness - They look for a high level of innovation and value any competitive edge your product or service shows. What sets you apart from others in the market?
  • Market Size - They analyze the growth potential of your product or service in terms of market demand and scalability. Is there a significant market opportunity for your solution?
  • Strategy - They examine your planned actions and strategies to achieve your business goals. How well-defined and feasible is your roadmap for success?
2.Who will evaluate my application?

Your application will be evaluated by a panel of esteemed judges who possess deep expertise and industry insights. Stay tune for our star-studded panel.

1.How do I know whether I’ve entered the Regional Semi-Pitch?

We understand your eagerness to know the progress! Rest assured, our EPiC team will notify you via email in January. Keep a close eye on your inbox, as we'll deliver the exciting news straight to you.

If you have any questions or need any assistance, don't hesitate to reach out.

Hong Kong contestants: Contact HKSTP's EPiC team at epic@hkstp.org.

Overseas contestants: Feel free to reach out to our dedicated strategic partner Plug and Play at EPiC2024.Enquiry@pnpchina.com.

We're here to support you throughout the process and provide any guidance you may need. Your success is our priority.

2.When and where will the Regional Semi-Pitch take place?

If you're in the Hong Kong track, the semi-pitch will take place in Hong Kong on 29 February.

As for overseas companies, our strategic partner, Plug and Play, will notify you about the physical event location and arrangement. They will be hosting events in Silicon Valley (17-18 January), Singapore (22-23 February) and Stuttgart (4-5 March). What’s more - we'll even arrange your flight tickets to ensure your smooth participation in the semi-pitch. We can't wait to see you shine on the semi-pitch stage!

3.Can I pitch together with my partner?

While we appreciate the enthusiasm from both of you, only one representative from each company is allowed to pitch in the competition. To ensure fairness and consistency throughout the competition, we require the same person to pitch in the Regional Semi-Pitch, Elevator Pitch and Grand Finale rounds. Changing your representative may result in disqualification. We recommend careful deliberation in selecting your most proficient spokesperson to showcase your startup's excellence.

4.Can I deliver my pitch in a language other than English?

To maintain a level playing field and ensure effective evaluation, all pitches must be delivered in English. This language requirement allows our judges to fully grasp and evaluate the details of your presentation. Don't worry if English is not your first language, as innovation is the only language that matters here!

5.Can I use a presentation deck and prototype at the Regional Semi-Pitch?

Sure! Please share your deck with us according to instructions emailed to you, and we also encourage bringing your prototype on stage to demonstrate its functionality and unique features to the judges.

6.How much time do I have? Is there a Q&A session?

You have 8 minutes to deliver your semi-pitch. After your pitch, there will be a Q&A session where the judges can ask you questions. The Q&A session lasts for approximately 2 minutes, giving you an opportunity to respond fully and interact with judges.

7.When will I know the pitching result and whether I can enter the grand finale?

You will be notified via email in March. Keep a close eye on your inbox, as we will deliver the exciting news directly to you.

1.When will I receive notification if I have been selected as one of the 72 semi-finalists?

By March 2024, you'll find the list of semi-finalists proudly displayed on the EPiC website. We’ll also deliver the message straight to your email inbox, ensuring you're among the first to know about your well-deserved achievement. Keep an eye on your email and the EPiC website and brace yourself for the exciting news!

2.When and where will the Grand Finale take place?

The Grand Finale will take place on 26 April 2024 (Friday) at the sky100, located in the iconic International Commerce Centre (ICC) at 1 Austin Rd W, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong.

3.Are there any financial provisions for overseas semi-finalists to travel to Hong Kong for the competition?

HKSTP offers financial assistance in the form of subsidised air tickets to Hong Kong and accommodation for the Grand Finale. This valuable support is exclusively provided to the 72 semi-finalists who have been shortlisted for the competition.

4.What is the competition flow at the Grand Finale?

The competition flow is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Here's the rundown:

  • Elevator Pitch: Each semi-finalist makes a pitch inside an elevator with the judges. You have precisely 60 seconds to present your ideas and impress them with your startup's brilliance. It's an intense and exhilarating experience as every second counts.
  • Judging and Selection: Following the elevator pitches, the judges will deliberate and assess the pitches from each semi-finalist. The top 12 finalists (4 from each tech category) will be selected to advance to the next round.
  • Final Pitch: The spotlight shines on the top 12 finalists as they take the stage. Each finalist will have 3 minutes to deliver their final pitch to an extended audience of judges, investors, and corporate partners. Following the pitch, there will be a 3-minute Q&A session where the judges can delve deeper into the details and assess the startups' readiness for success.
  • Winners Announcement and Award Ceremony: The suspense reaches its peak as the winners are announced. Simple!
5.Is it possible for both my partner and me to pitch together?

While we appreciate the enthusiasm from both of you, only one representative from each company is allowed to pitch in the competition. To ensure fairness and consistency throughout the competition, we require the same person to pitch in the Regional Semi-Pitch, Elevator Pitch and Grand Finale rounds. Changing your representative may result in disqualification. We recommend careful deliberation in selecting your most proficient spokesperson to showcase your startup's excellence.

6.Can I deliver my pitch in a language other than English?

To maintain a level playing field and ensure effective evaluation, all pitches must be delivered in English. This language requirement allows our judges to fully grasp and evaluate the details of your presentation. Don't worry if English is not your first language, as innovation is the only language that matters here!

7.Do I really need to go inside an elevator to deliver the Elevator Pitch? What is the process?

Yes, semi-finalists do indeed enter an actual elevator to deliver your pitch.
Each semi-finalist will step into the elevator with two judges waiting inside. The pitch will be delivered as the elevator ascends from the 2nd floor to the 100th floor. The ride is exactly 60 seconds.

8.Can I pitch at the Elevator Pitch & Final Pitch using a presentation deck and prototype?

While presentation decks are not permitted, you are welcome to bring your prototype on stage – in fact, we encourage you to demonstrate its functionality and unique features to the judges.

9.How long is the on-stage presentation for the Final Pitch for Top 12 finalists?

Each Final Pitch consists of a 3-minute pitch followed by a 3-minute Q&A session where judges raise any queries they have. Prepare diligently, practice your presentation, and anticipate potential questions to make the most out of this critical session.

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Elevator Pitch Competition will be back in Nov 2025

Hong Kong’s signature startup competition is returning with delightful surprises.
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