What is Knowledge Transfer Venture Impact Fund (KT-VIF)?
As part of a strategic restructuring of CUHK’s internal funding portfolio, the Sustainable Knowledge Transfer Project Fund (S-KPF) has now concluded and will be succeeded by new initiative — the Knowledge Transfer Venture Impact Fund (KT-VIF). The KT-VIF supports CUHK academics-led ventures that turn applied research into sustainable, scalable solutions with clear social impact, fostering innovation-driven enterprises that address societal challenges through evidence-based and impactful approaches.
Eligibility
Project Leader and Co-Leader(s) should be full-time CUHK staff on professoriate or research academic ranks. Other teaching staff will be considered on a case-by-case basis. All CUHK staff, students and non-CUHK members may join as team members.
Funding Amount
Up to HK$300,000 for 2 years
Support
- Business development consultancy
- Publicity and media engagement support
- Partnership liaison
Assessment Criteria
- Social impact of the proposed business – 30%
- Relevance to underpinning research and innovativeness – 20%
- Viability and business readiness (e.g. business model, product-market fit) – 20%
- Project Management, Governance & Team Capability – 20%
- Potential to attract investment (for company limited by shares) or funding from private foundation or government (for company limited by guarantee) – 10%
Important dates
15th Sept 2025 – Call for Proposals
24th Sept 2025 – Information Session
14th Nov 2025 – Submission Deadline
Mid-Mar 2026 – Results Announcement
1st Apr 2026 – Project Commencement