Top government funding for Hong Kong small businesses: EMF

In 2022, small businesses MUST take advantage of all government funding and grants. We deep dive into the $800k government grant that can help you promote your business, the SME Export Marketing Fund (EMF).

With tightened COVID-19 restrictions in Hong Kong, being held hostage at home does not mean your business should stop growing and scaling.

The government funding SME Export Marketing Fund (EMF) is more relevant today than ever before. This funding is focused on helping you expand to markets outside of Hong Kong by funding your promotional activities. (Yes, this can include your Facebook and Instagram ads)

Let's break down the essentials.

Eligibility criteria

✅  Non-listed Hong Kong companies with main business operations in Hong Kong.

❌  Non-profit organisations (NGOs) are not eligible.

❌  Shell business are not eligible. Companies with main business operations outside of Hong Kong are not eligible.
‍

What does the funding cover?

• [UPDATED] From 30th Apr 2021 - scope expanded to "cover large-scale exhibitions targeting the local market as well as online exhibitions"
• Trade exhibitions held in or outside Hong Kong targeting overseas markets
• Trade exhibitions held in Hong Kong targeting the local market
• Online trade exhibition, online business missions (organised events with intention to tap into international markets) and online marketing enhancements
• Business missions outside Hong Kong (visits to key international markets to expand business)
• Promotional activities on digital platforms that target overseas markets (e.g. digital advertisements, keyword search, social media ad campaigns, setting up or enhancing website)
  ‍

Size of the funding

Funding ceiling per application

The maximum amount of funding support for each successful claim is 50% of the total approved expenditure or $100,000, whichever is the less.

Cumulative funding ceiling per company

Each company has a cumulative limit of $800,000. Up to 50% of this can be used for expenses related to online marketing initiatives.
‍

How to apply?

• Online e-Form from government e-Form portal (https://eform.one.gov.hk/form/tid001/en/) and upload the digital files of the supporting documents
  ‍‍
• By post - Address: Room 1301, 13/F, Trade and Industry Tower, 3 Concorde Road, Kowloon City, Hong Kong
  ‍‍
• Drop-in box or in person to TID’s “SME Export Marketing Fund Branch” next to Enquiry Counter on G/F of Trade and Industry Tower
  Opening hours:
  Monday to Friday: 8:45am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 5:45pm (Lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm) Closed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays

Want to skip all of the above? We are happy to help!‍

Simply send us a message on WhatsApp.  We can lift the administrative burden off you, so you can skip to the best part ➔ get funding.

Here are some ideas on how to leverage SME Export Marketing Fund (EMF) to promote your business online:

1. Create or enhance your website/mobile platform.‍

Without a website, people may question your legitimacy as a business. Having a website is an opportunity to make a great first impression. Boost your Click-through Rate and lay the foundation for future digital marketing.

2. Advertise online.

Reach new customers and grow your business with ad placements with Google Ads, Facebook, Instagram. Drive awareness and engagement and turn your advertising investment into revenue.

3. Advertise with Keyword search.

Determine the search terms that are most relevant to your business’s offerings. Create ad campaigns with your target keywords.

4. Participate in online exhibitions.

Increase visibility and attract a global audience with virtual exhibitions. Generate leads and boost sales in a foreign market.
‍

FundFluent provides one-stop services for SMEs, from registering a company to finding funds. We can even help you with your strategy to make the most out of the EMF grant.

Create an account with FundFluent and get more information now!

（ FundFluent | Get business insights, access funding.)

‍

‍