Public Sector Trial Scheme – ITF Projects

Public Sector Trial Scheme – ITF Projects (PSTS-ITF) in Hong Kong is a funding program launched in March 2011 with the following comprehensive details: Objectives: - To provide funding support for production of prototypes/samples and/or conducting trials in the public sector. - To facilitate and promote the realization and commercialization of research and development (R&D) results from completed ITF projects. Target Beneficiaries: - Completed ITF R&D projects undertaken by R&D Centres and designated local public research institutes. - Applicants must be either the R&D Centre/designated local public research institute undertaking the project or the company owning the intellectual property (IP) of the project deliverables. - Trials and use of prototypes/samples are confined to the public sector, including Government bureaux and departments, public bodies, non-profit-making trade associations, and charitable organizations. Key Features: - Maximum funding support covers up to 50% of the actual cost of the original R&D project. - Maximum project duration is 24 months. - Industry sponsorship is not mandatory. - Trials should aim to develop new products not currently available in the market, employing R&D results from completed ITF projects. - Project funds cover costs exclusively for prototype/sample production and conducting trials; administrative charges and overheads are excluded. - Trials can be conducted outside Hong Kong but must be within the public sector of the relevant economies, with no more than 50% of funding used outside Hong Kong. Application Process: - Applications are accepted year-round. - Applicants should read the "Guide to Filling in the PSTS Application Form" before applying. - Applications are vetted by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC), which may request clarifications. - Eligible applications are submitted to the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology for funding approval. - If the applicant does not own the IP, a letter of consent from the IP owner must be included. Additional Support: - PSTS Helpdesk assists in matching applicants with suitable public sector organizations for trials. Contact details and application forms are available on the official ITF website.