DesignSmart funding schemes launched
The Government today (September 30) launched three funding schemes under its DesignSmart Initiative to promote innovation and design.
The $250 million initiative caters to projects that encourage the culture, greater appreciation and adoption of design, and honours excellence in local design.
The three funding schemes announced today cover Design Research, Professional
Continuing Education and Design-Business Collaboration.
Under the Design Research Scheme, research proposals will be sought on
"Ergonomics: Size China" and "Supply and Demand of Design
Manpower".
The Innovation and Technology Commission says ergonomics research is a
rapidly growing market, particularly in relation to the Mainland because
of its sheer size. It can help ensure people's capabilities and limitations
are taken into account in harmonising products and services for people.
On manpower supply and demand, the commission says in-depth studies in
various industry sectors and skill levels are vital to the long-term strategic
planning for the development of the design industry.
The Professional Continuing Education Scheme aims to develop new courses
that contribute to design capability building and to nurture talent, as
well as an appreciation and understanding of design by industry generally.
Both schemes are open to applications by local academic institutes, industry
support organisations, trade and industry associations, professional bodies,
research institutes and companies.
The Design-Business Collaboration Scheme aims to promote the interest
and investment of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in utilising
design and transforming design activity into tradable deliverables.
Local design companies or academic institutions, with local SMEs as collaborating
parties, are eligible to apply for funds under the scheme.
An assessment panel, chaired by the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology
and comprising officials, professionals, industrialists, businessmen,
designers and academics, will assess applications and monitor progress
of the funded projects.
Details of the DesignSmart Initiative can be downloaded from www.designsmart.gov.hk.
Ends/Thursday, September 30, 2004
