The Innovation & Technology Commission (ITC) is inviting applications for jointly funded projects under the Mainland-Hong Kong Technology Cooperation Funding Scheme from today until October 13.

The funding scheme aims to encourage research and development (R&D) collaboration among universities, research institutes and technology enterprises in Mainland China and Hong Kong.

The first of the two themes/topics under the scheme includes ageing biotechnology and engineering, which covers innovative medicine for improving elderly health, smart health technologies and rehabilitation medical devices for seniors.

The second theme/topic involves low-altitude flight system technology, which encompasses low-altitude infrastructure construction and low-altitude aircraft technology.

The ITC said that the topics selected focus on gerontechnology and low-altitude flight technology, providing a technical foundation for developing the silver economy and low-altitude economy.

All applications must fit the specific themes/topics and must be submitted simultaneously by the Hong Kong and Mainland institutions to the ITC and the Ministry of Science & Technology respectively.

In addition, the R&D work must be conducted in both places and involve co-operation between the two places.

The ITC and the ministry will provide funding to the Hong Kong and Mainland applicant organisations respectively, and will monitor project progress according to their own requirements.

For enquiries, call the Innovation & Technology Fund Secretariat at 3655 5678 or send an email.