The Mega Events Fund assessment committee has received 19 applications from non-profit-making organisations in the arts, culture, sports and other fields. The fund's first round of applications closed at noon today.

The Tourism Commission said the good response shows many organisations are interested in organising mega events in Hong Kong. Application results will be announced within three months.

In assessing the applications the committee will consider economic, public relations and other benefits the events can bring; the events scale; the applicants' capability and track record; the proposals' feasibility; and, the budget.

The committee was appointed by the Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development to consider applications, monitor progress and evaluate the mega event outcomes. It is chaired by Jeffrey Lam with members from the tourism, arts, culture, sports and events management sectors, and Home Affairs Bureau, Information Services Department and Tourism Commission officials.

The Government is still welcoming interested organisations to submit proposals for consideration together with other applications received in the second-round.

The fund was launched after the 2009-10 Budget earmarked $100 million to help local non-profit-making organisations host more attractive arts, cultural and sports events over the next three years to further promote Hong Kong as the events capital of Asia.