Enhancing Self-Reliance Through District Partnership Programme

Objectives:

• Promote self-reliance among socially disadvantaged groups through social enterprise (SE) projects.
• Encourage district-based collaboration and partnerships to maximize social impact.
• Support sustainable social enterprises that create job opportunities and social inclusion.

Target Beneficiaries:

• Socially disadvantaged individuals who benefit from employment and advancement opportunities.
• Non-profit-making organizations, including charitable institutions with tax-exempt status under Section 88 of the Inland Revenue Ordinance.
• Non-Section 88 organizations and social enterprises with at least one year of non-profit or SE experience.

Key Features:

• Funding up to HK$3 million per project for a maximum of three years.
• Priority given to projects that:
  • Leverage strengths of socially disadvantaged groups.
  • Generate significant social impacts, such as helping employees transition to the open market.
  • Foster cross-sector partnerships involving private sector, district organizations, and professional bodies.
  • Adopt a district-based approach utilizing local resources and networks.
  • Create synergy among social enterprises through collaboration and procurement.
  • Deliver added social value beyond job creation, e.g., enhancing well-being and social inclusion.

Application Process:

• Open year-round with half-yearly deadlines; next deadline is 28 February 2026.
• Applicants must submit a completed ESR Application Form with all required documents.
• Non-Section 88 organizations must also submit a supplementary proforma.
• Applications are reviewed based on merit and alignment with ESR objectives.
• Submission via post, hand, or email to the ESR Programme Secretariat at the Home Affairs Department.

Additional Support:

• Guides and tips for successful applications and setting up social enterprises are available.
• The Hong Kong Council of Social Service provides practical guides for SE establishment and legal considerations.

This program aims to empower disadvantaged groups through sustainable social enterprise development with strong community and cross-sector collaboration.