Celebrating HKU Techno-Entrepreneurship Academy’s First Anniversary
The HKU Techno-Entrepreneurship Academy (TEA) marked its first anniversary in Qianhai, Shenzhen on 13 October 2025, celebrating a major milestone in its focus on innovation and partnership. Within a year, the Academy has become a key hub for technological progress, connecting the vibrant ecosystems of Hong Kong and Shenzhen.
The achievements over the past year have been impressive. The TEA has expanded from a modest start of 11 initial projects to an astounding 67 high-tech startups. This exponential growth signifies both the Academy's potential and the trust investors place in it. The total funding secured has approached an impressive RMB$400 million, with the cumulative valuation of the startups reaching billions in RMB. This strong investor confidence reflects TEA’s role as a critical driver of innovation in the Greater Bay Area.
Moreover, the Academy has cultivated a vibrant community comprising 18 leading professors, 40 PhD candidates, and nearly 300 youth innovators, including 115 young talents from Hong Kong. This diverse pool of talent ensures a rich exchange of ideas and expertise, which is vital for fostering a robust entrepreneurial environment.
A key highlight of the celebration was recognising the first successfully incubated company, Dynano Semiconductor Technology. Founded by Prof. Huang Mingxin, who is also from HKU’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dynano has moved to its new facility for mass production, demonstrating the potential of academic-industry collaboration.
Key Highlights from the Ceremony
The anniversary event included several significant announcements and collaborations that underscore the TEA’s commitment to advancing innovation. One of the major achievements was the strategic partnership forged with the University of Cambridge. This collaboration aims to co-develop international innovation courses and facilitate a global exchange of ideas, positioning the Academy as a global leader in entrepreneurship and technology transfer.
In addition, a strategic agreement was signed with the Shenzhen New Quality Productivity Technology Promotion Centre, aimed at creating a comprehensive technology transfer ecosystem. This partnership will enhance the flow of innovative ideas and support startups in their journey from conception to market.
A ceremonial plaque unveiling marked the launch of the "Global Hub for Future Dentistry," the Greater Bay Area’s first dental incubation programme. Developed in collaboration with the HKU Faculty of Dentistry and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), this initiative is dedicated to fostering dental innovation and entrepreneurship, positioning Hong Kong as a leader in the field.
Looking Ahead
As TEA begins its second year, it aims to further leverage Qianhai’s vibrant environment to transform cutting-edge research into impactful ventures. The ongoing support from the Qianhai Authority and various partners has been vital in this journey, and TEA looks forward to continuing its role as a crucial link between academia and industry.
With its comprehensive approach to nurturing innovation, TEA is well-placed to make a significant contribution to the entrepreneurial landscape of the Greater Bay Area. As collaborations deepen and new ventures develop, the future looks promising for both the Academy and its community of innovators.
