From Hong Kong to Shenzhen – 10 Companies Exploring New Markets in Asia
Leap4Growth recently organized a delegation to Hong Kong and Shenzhen, connecting ten innovative tech companies from Sweden, Finland, Estonia, and Latvia. Over the course of a week, the companies got a first-hand look at what it means to enter two of Asia’s most dynamic business regions. The program combined market seminars, site visits, pitching sessions, and networking events, equipping participants with both the knowledge and connections needed to kickstart their journeys.
“The Disneyland of Business”
The delegation kicked off in Hong Kong, or “the Disneyland of Business,” as learned during the market introduction seminar. And it started on a high, quite literally. After an afternoon of getting to know each other over food, the group took the iconic Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak, rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of the city.
The following day offered a deeper understanding of the Hong Kong market, led by the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Business Sweden. The companies also had the chance to meet and hear from two Swedish entrepreneurs who have already made the journey and established companies in the region. One of the project mentors also shared the valuable insights of an insider.
The day wrapped up at a networking event hosted by the Finnish Consulate, where our companies connected with investors, ecosystem partners, and members of the Nordic Chambers.
The final part of the Hong Kong program took place at HKSTP — Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation — touring their impressive facilities, learning more about the ecosystem, and meeting some of the 2,600 companies based in the park. Applications range from AI to life and health, and green tech.
In the afternoon, the companies had the opportunity to pitch and connect with Invest Hong Kong, alongside a valuable presentation on Hong Kong’s innovation and technology landscape.
From there, the delegation continued the journey into its second chapter: Shenzhen!
China’s Silicon Valley
The final two days were spent in Shenzhen, also known as the Silicon Valley of China.
Over these days, the companies covered everything from insights on navigating the differences between Hong Kong and mainland China and avoiding IP pitfalls, to seeing robots in action at Huayan Robotics.
The delegation also visited the Qianhai Shenzhen–Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneur Hub, where our companies were introduced to the opportunities and support available for international startups, followed by a valuable pitching and networking session.
This marked the end of this trip, but certainly not the end of the opportunities in these markets. All in all, this week has truly been about connections. The knowledge shared, the conversations started, and the relationships built. This is just the beginning.
Next step: Vietnam
If you are curious to learn more about the Leap4Growth initiative, or interested in joining the next delegation exploring the Vietnam market later this fall, don’t hesitate to reach out to Klara Ewald, Lead Partner and Project Manager for Leap4Growth.
