Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEx) has become the latest backer of an accelerator programme designed to nurture the island's fintech community.
The giant exchange operator joins the likes of Standard Chartered, Baidu x APIStore and Microsoft in backing the 12-week SuperCharger programme, open to startups and more established global fintech firms looking to grab a slice of the Asian market.
In exchange for a five per cent equity stake, startups that join the accelerator get US$30,000 and access to office space and a network of VCs and mentors. Larger, outside firms have to pay US$20,000 for a host of help designed to help them establish themselves in Asia.
Firms have until 20 November to apply for the programme, which will begin in January, cumulating with a demo day in April.
Charles Li, chief executive, HKEx, says: "Harnessing the vibrant creativity that Hong Kong's start-up community offers is hugely important to our future. We are excited to be partnering with the SuperCharger Accelerator and look forward to working together with its participants over the coming months, and we hope beyond."