Building on the resounding success of its inaugural edition last year, PolyU has officially returned with its flagship innovation and entrepreneurship competition: the PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 (PolyU IFC). The Launch Ceremony, held on 13 May, sets the stage for a new wave of global innovators to convert visionary ideas into impactful ventures.

This year’s Challenge has significantly expanded its reach and strategic depth. With eight competition regions including Shenzhen Qianhai, Jinjiang, Nanjing, Wuhan, Hong Kong, Hefei, Hangzhou and Wuxi, the initiative leverages the robust network of PolyU’s Mainland Translational Research Institutes (MTRIs). The competition is strategically aligned with the Nation’s 15th Five-Year Plan, specifically focusing on the “Artificial Intelligence (AI)+” initiative.

In his address, PolyU President Professor Jin-Guang Teng emphasised that PolyU IFC reflects the University’s commitment to nurturing top-tier talent. By connecting innovators with regional industrial clusters, the competition provides unprecedented market opportunities across five key domains: life sciences and healthcare, advanced manufacturing and microelectronics, digital economy and fintech, smart city and green living, and aerospace and aviation technology.

The rewards for participants are as extensive as the competition’s geographic footprint. Regional champions can win up to HK$120,000 (Hong Kong) or RMB100,000 (Chinese Mainland regions) and the chance to compete in the Grand Final. Beyond monetary prizes, the PolyVentures ecosystem offers winners commercialisation support, mentorship from industry experts, and direct access to a prestigious network of investors and corporate leaders. Furthermore, participants may receive tuition sponsorship for PolyU’s Master of Technology Entrepreneurship programme and access to the “KT&E Skills Acceleration Hub” training series.

The Launch Ceremony also featured a high-level fireside chat between Mr Albert Wong, former CEO of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, and Professor Yang Hongxia, Associate Dean (Global Engagement) of the PolyU Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences; Executive Director of the PolyU Academy for Artificial Intelligence; and Chair Professor of Generative Artificial Intelligence. Their dialogue explored the democratisation of AI and the essential role of translational research, inspiring the audience of scholars, investors, and startup representatives.

As PolyU continues to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application, PolyU IFC 2026 stands as a premier cross-border platform for those looking to drive societal impact through technology.

Applications are currently open for all regions until 14 June, with regional finals scheduled between August and November, culminating in a prestigious Grand Final in January next year. Global talents are encouraged to seize this opportunity to dream big and deliver solutions that will shape the future of society.

The Launch Ceremony of the PolyU International Future Challenge 2026 was officiated by Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, (centre); Prof. Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) (5th from left); Prof. Zheng Zijian, Vice President (Knowledge Transfer) (5th from right); Ms Amylia Chan, Interim Director of the Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office (4th from left); Prof. Yu Changyuan, Director of the PolyU-Jinjiang Technology and Innovation Research Institute (4th from right); Prof. Ni Yi-Qing, Director of the PolyU-Hangzhou Technology and Innovation Research Institute (3rd from left); Prof. Wu Chen, Director of the PolyU-Hefei Technology and Innovation Research Institute (3rd from right); Prof. George Q. Huang, Director of the PolyU-Wuxi Technology and Innovation Research Institute (2nd from left); Prof. He Mingguang, Director of the PolyU-Wuhan Technology and Innovation Research Institute (2nd from right); Prof. Tommy Wei Minchen, Director of the PolyU-Qianhai Disruptive Technology and Innovation Research Centre (1st from left); and Prof. Chi-wai Do, Associate Director of the PolyU-Nanjing Technology and Innovation Research Institute (1st from right).