After TVP: 4 government funding schemes Hong Kong SMEs can still apply in 2026
TVP stopped accepting new applications, but BUD, EMF, DTSP and ITF remain open. Per scheme: who it fits, matching ratio, ceiling and timeline.
TVP stopped accepting new applications, and many owners are asking: "What's left for us to apply for?" The answer: plenty. Four major government schemes remain open in 2026, covering different industries and needs. Here's the breakdown: coverage, matching ratio, ceiling and timeline.
BUD Fund — Mainland & ASEAN expansion
For businesses entering the Greater Bay Area or ASEAN for branding, distribution or e-commerce. Cumulative cap HK$7M per company, 1:1 matching. Covers platform development, marketing, product upgrades, brand work and overseas exhibitions. Approval: 3–6 months with a detailed business plan and budget. Best fit: export, consumer brands, manufacturing.
EMF — Overseas marketing and online ads
Cumulative cap HK$1M per company. Covers overseas exhibitions, Google/Facebook ads, international websites, SEO, trade publication ads and business trips. Reimbursement-based — pay first, claim 50% back later. Faster than BUD, 2–3 months end-to-end. Great for SMEs testing overseas marketing.
DTSP — Digital Transformation pilot for F&B and retail
1:1 matching, up to HK$50,000 per firm. Targets POS upgrades, online ordering, member systems, CRM and inventory. Simple application — 2–4 weeks turnaround, far less paperwork than TVP. Best fit: 5–50 person restaurants, retailers and cafés. The most direct TVP replacement.
ITF GSP — Mid-to-large R&D projects
The Innovation and Technology Fund's General Support Programme covers projects with real R&D (new tech, new products, new processes). No fixed ceiling — depends on project scope. High bar; proposal prep takes 1–2 months. Strongly consider hiring an experienced consultant or success rate drops.
Which fits you? F&B and retail: DTSP. Export and trade: BUD or EMF. New tech R&D: ITF. We've helped a dozen SMEs prep applications and know where each scheme allocates budget and what wording lands. WhatsApp us for a free 30-minute review — share your project and budget, we'll tell you the right combination. Information current as of 2026; check the latest official announcements for binding terms.