*****************************
The 21st 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 aimed at increasing the competitiveness of Hong Kong's professional services on the Mainland and other external markets, and enhancing the standard of local professional services. Professional, trade, or industrial organisations as well as research institutes are eligible to apply for funding from the PSDAS. Such 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, comprising professionals, business people, academics and a government official, will assess applications and monitor approved projects.
In the previous nineteenth rounds of applications, a total of 201 applications were recommended by the vetting committee and the funding involved was $80.2 million. Projects funded so far include conferences, training programmes, exchange visits and promotional activities. Among the approved projects, 86 involving funding of $35.32 million relate to enhancing competitiveness on the mainland market. Applications received in the 20th 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.cedb.gov.hk/citb/psdas, or can be checked by calling the enquiry hotline 2918 7593.
To facilitate interested organisations in preparing their applications, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau will organise a briefing session on August 27. A helpdesk service will be available from August 27. Interested organisations may call the enquiry hotline for details or registration.
All applications for this round should reach the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau on or before September 30.
Ends/Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Issued at HKT 11:03
NNNN
