The Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (SPPRFS) 2026-27 is open for applications from now to May 12, the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit (CEPU) announced today.

To align with the opportunities brought to Hong Kong by the National 15th Five-Year Plan, and in light of the Government’s policy priorities, five strategic themes have been identified for SPPRFS 2026-27.

These are as follows: development opportunities arising from the National 15th Five-Year Plan and the Greater Bay Area; deepening international exchanges and co-operation in support of the country’s opening up to the world; the development of education, technology, talent and industries; the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism; and elderly and healthcare services.

Applications must be made under one of these themes, and must be align with specified research areas. Individual SPPRFS projects can be granted a maximum of $5 million and last from one to five years.

CEPU Head Stephen Wong, said: “Through its funding schemes, the CEPU will continue to act as a catalyst for transforming internationally oriented academic research into valuable references for policy considerations, fostering a vibrant network of local civil society and university think tanks, and further enhancing their international influence.”

Having regard to Hong Kong’s current and long-term development, and to the need for research on various social issues, the CEPU revealed separately that while applications for the SPPRFS are accepted at specific times each year, those for the Public Policy Research Funding Scheme (PPRFS) – which focuses on research studies of a shorter duration and smaller scale – are now accepted throughout the year. Results of applications to the PPRFS will be issued in batches.

Both schemes aim at encouraging local tertiary institutions and public policy research think tanks to conduct evidence-based research on key public policy issues, and to facilitate the transfer of research findings to policy-making. Assessments are conducted by a panel comprising experienced academics and professional experts.