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The 13th round of applications for funding from the Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme (PSDAS) is now open.
The scheme, launched in February, 2002, with an allocation of $100 million, finances projects which are aimed at increasing the competitiveness of Hong Kong's professional services on the Mainland and other external markets, and enhancing the standard of the local professional services. Professional, trade, or industrial organisations as well as research institutes are eligible to apply for funding from the PSDAS. These organisations or institutes must be non-profit-distributing.
Grants are given on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis. The maximum amount of grant for a project is HK$2 million.
A vetting committee of professionals, business people, academics and a government official, will assess applications and monitor approved projects.
In the previous 11 rounds of applications, a total of 146 applications were recommended by the vetting committee and the funding involved was $56.82 million. Projects funded so far include conferences, training programmes, exchange visits and promotional activities, etc. Among the approved projects, 65 projects involving funding of $25.57 million relate to enhancing competitiveness on the Mainland market. Applications received in the 12th round are being processed and the results will be available in mid September.
Detailed information about the scheme, a list of the approved projects as well as the application form are available at the PSDAS website www.citb.gov.hk/cib/psdas, or can be checked by calling the enquiry hotline 2918 7593.
To facilitate interested organisations in preparing their applications, the Commerce, Industry and Technology Bureau will organise a briefing session on September 7. The helpdesk service will be available from September 7 onwards. Interested organisations may call the enquiry hotline for details or registration.
All applications for this round should reach the Commerce, Industry and Technology Bureau on or before September 30.
Ends/Friday, August 4, 2006
Issued at HKT 16:52
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