Hong Kong took a significant step in its quest to become a global innovation and technology hub with the official launch of SEAM@InnoHK, the third research cluster under the InnoHK initiative, at Hong Kong Science Park on September 1, 2026. The ceremony, hosted by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) in collaboration with the Innovation and Technology Commission, signals a major investment in emerging industries that could shape the city’s economic future.
SEAM@InnoHK focuses on sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials—areas critical to addressing global challenges such as climate change and resource scarcity. By bringing together top local and international academic and research institutions, the cluster aims to translate cutting-edge research into tangible societal benefits. The launch was officiated by key government and industry leaders, including Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, and Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP, underscoring the strategic importance of this initiative.
The new cluster is composed of eight R&D centres that involve collaborations with over 30 prestigious universities and research institutions worldwide, including the University of Cambridge, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Nagoya University, National University of Singapore, Tsinghua University, and Peking University. Notably, three centres feature partnerships with Nobel Laureates: Professor Ben L. Feringa (2016 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry) at the InnoHK Centre of Functional Materials for Energy and Sustainability (CFMES); Sir Konstantin Novoselov (2010 Nobel Laureate in Physics) at the Inno Centre for Heterogeneous Integration and Production (CHIP); and Professor Hiroshi Amano (2014 Nobel Laureate in Physics) at InnoHK Power Semiconductors and Applications Center (PowerSAC). This concentration of world-class talent highlights Hong Kong’s unique ability to attract and foster global research collaboration.
The implications of this launch are far-reaching. For Hong Kong, it represents a strategic pivot towards high-value, knowledge-based industries that can drive economic diversification and create high-skilled jobs. The focus on sustainable energy and advanced manufacturing aligns with global trends and positions Hong Kong as a key player in the green transition. Moreover, the collaboration with international institutions enhances Hong Kong’s reputation as a bridge between mainland China and the global scientific community, facilitating cross-border innovation and knowledge exchange.
For the broader region, SEAM@InnoHK could accelerate the development of technologies with commercial applications in renewable energy, smart manufacturing, and materials science. The R&D centres are expected to not only produce breakthrough research but also to spin off startups and partner with industry to bring innovations to market. HKSTP’s comprehensive support infrastructure—including world-class R&D facilities, access to talent and investors, and matchmaking with funding partners—is designed to commercialize research outcomes effectively.
Ms Cordelia Chung highlighted the cluster’s potential: “InnoHK has demonstrated the power of collaboration amongst world eminent scholars, researchers, and global partners. The first two clusters have delivered world-class achievements. We commit to provide all the support we can to the InnoHK teams, as your success will add to the heartbeat of the ecosystem—not only for HKSTP, but for Hong Kong’s entire innovation landscape.”
The launch of SEAM@InnoHK is a clear signal that Hong Kong is doubling down on its innovation agenda. As the world increasingly looks to science and technology to solve pressing issues, this initiative positions Hong Kong at the forefront of emerging industries, promising economic growth and societal benefits for years to come. With a robust ecosystem and global partnerships, the cluster is poised to make significant contributions to both Hong Kong and the world.
