Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) has opened applications for the 7th edition of its fintech programme Global Fast Track (GFT) 2024, accepting submissions until 20 September.

The programme invites fintech companies from both local and international markets to pitch their ideas on global platforms, offering mentorship and business matchmaking to help unlock their potential.

The global finalists of the GFT’s pitching competition will compete in the grand finale at Hong Kong Fintech Week (HKFW).

This year’s programme includes new features aimed at strengthening Hong Kong’s position as the premier international fintech hub.

King Leung, Global Head of Financial Services, Fintech and Sustainability at InvestHK, said,

“The Global Fast Track has evolved into a fintech-friendly platform in the past few years. We have helped over 1,000 fintech companies from more than 50 economies to showcase their cutting-edge innovations and expedite their market entry in Hong Kong and beyond.

We are thrilled to build on this success and continue to offer unparalleled access to a global network with more than 100 investor and corporate champions, mentors, and industry leaders through GFT 2024.”

Enhanced Networking Opportunities

The new features of GFT 2024 include enhanced networking opportunities.

These opportunities encompass ongoing one-on-one meetings facilitated by the GFT matchmaking platform.

Additionally, the new Founders Champions Night will bring together successful homegrown champions from Hong Kong who have raised funds, been acquired, or expanded internationally, allowing them to network exclusively with GFT finalists.

More international champions, including investors and financial institutions from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, will participate, fostering connectivity between the GCC region and Hong Kong.

The new Investor Network Night will enable companies to connect with key investors, presenting them with growth and funding opportunities.

Expanded Vertical Tracks for 2024

For 2024, GFT is expanding its featured verticals to include ESG/Green Fintech, Blockchain, and Insurance/HealthTech, alongside the established fintech and artificial intelligence tracks.

This expansion reflects the evolving trends in the financial services industry.

Semi-finalists from each track will be invited to Hong Kong to pitch their ideas in person during HKFW, with the grand finale scheduled for the second day.

This event offers fintech innovators a unique opportunity to present their ideas to thousands of attendees, including key corporations and investors seeking fintech solutions and investment prospects.

Past winners have hailed from diverse countries such as Canada, France, Israel, Mainland China, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

InvestHK will collaborate with Finoverse, the appointed co-organiser of GFT 2024, to elevate the programme to new heights.

Leung added,

“With the introduction of new features this year, we aim to further unlock the true potential of innovation within the fintech industry and provide a springboard for groundbreaking solutions to make a transformative impact.

I look forward to welcoming high-caliber applicants from around the world and the remarkable outcomes that will emerge from this programme.”

Upcoming Fintech Week Highlights and Kuala Lumpur Roadshow

Hong Kong Fintech Week is scheduled from 28 October to 1 November 2024 at AsiaWorld-Expo.

The event will feature over 35,000 attendees, including leading fintech companies like Xiaomi, Tencent, and Bullish, alongside more than 500 innovative startups, aiming to explore new pathways in finance for Asia and beyond.

To provide more information and answer any questions, the Hong Kong Fintech Week team will be hosting a roadshow in Kuala Lumpur on 29 July 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Colony Coworking Space – KLCC, 1/F Event Lounge.

This roadshow offers insights into HKFW 2024 and its significance for Southeast Asia, providing networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts from Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

Those interested can register here.

For details of the entire programme of GFT 2024 and the application process, please visit here.

Featured image credit: Edited from Freepik