Applications are invited for the third round of the SME Development Fund from September 1 to October 31.

Non-profit-distributing support organisations, trade and industrial organisations, professional bodies and research institutes are welcome to come up with funding proposals to help enhance the competitiveness of SMEs in general or in specific sectors.

The proposals can be projects which help SMEs identify the way forward and leverage on new business opportunities; projects which help raise SMEs' awareness on specific know-how, technologies, best practices and skills; projects which help SMEs build capabilities on IT, human resources, financial management, marketing and brand-building; and any initiatives which have practical benefits  for SMEs.

The Trade & Industry Department said proposals which can help SMEs capitalise on the new business opportunities and challenges arising from the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement are most welcome.

It believes that trade and industrial organisations and industry support organisations have a pivotal role to play in helping SMEs equip themselves for CEPA.

The maximum amount of funding for an approved SME Development Fund project is $2 million, or 90% of the total project expenditure, whichever is less.

The applicant will have to contribute the remaining amount, which may be in cash, in kind or in the form of third-party sponsorship.

Each applicant may put in up to four applications in the current round.

Applications received will be considered by a vetting committee, which is chaired by the Director-General of Trade & Industry and comprises industrialists, business executives, SME entrepreneurs, professionals, academics, and members of the SME Committee.

Application forms and the guide for applicants are available at the SDF Secretariat, 4/F, Trade & Industry Department Tower, 700 Nathan Road, Mong Kok, Kowloon, Hong Kong.

They may also be downloaded from the homepage of the SME Funding Schemes. A list of the previously approved SDF projects can also be accessed from the website.

For enquiries, please contact the SDF Secretariat by phone at 2398 5128 or via e-mail at sdf_enquiry@tid.gov.hk.