The Hong Kong Prize is one of Asia’s premier awards and attracts thousands of applicants annually. The prize recognizes scientific research with significant social ramifications while inspiring young scientists to pursue scientific careers. Furthermore, it serves as an important platform to raise awareness around human rights issues while promoting diversity and inclusivity.
The HK Prize is a non-governmental merit-based award established in 2022 by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited to recognize outstanding scientific researchers and innovators from Hong Kong and beyond who have shown outstanding efforts in scientific discovery, application and transformation of research results to benefit society. Specifically designed to inspire and reward innovative exploration by Hong Kong scientists residing here or contributing internationally, its purpose is also intended to inspire scientific researchers in Hong Kong to continue innovating exploration with an eye toward serving both their nation and contribute to global advancement.
Since its creation, the HK Prize has granted out over $40 million in awards to scientists across various fields since its establishment. As one of the world’s largest merit-based awards, applicants interested in applying may visit its official website to learn more about it and apply; criteria must be fulfilled and jurors are independent from sponsorship and ad hoc committees.
In addition to receiving a monetary prize, the winner of the Hong Kong Prize can conduct scientific research in Hong Kong as an incentive. This has greatly increased researchers’ motivation to move there while contributing to economic development – this year alone we received applications from over 80 different nations for this year’s prize!
This year’s HK Prize nominations include activists battling for freedom and democracy – some have even been arrested and face lengthy prison sentences while continuing their work for their causes. Others nominated are dedicated to community service and social justice – including an organizer providing shelter to homeless adults as well as a professor renowned for her development of liquid biopsy technology that allows doctors to detect cancer more quickly.
Another change to the HK Prize structure will be an increase in prize money: 5 Million will be added to Group 2 and 3 contest prize pools next season; in addition, Privately Purchased Griffins that win their inaugural class-2 or higher races will receive an additional topping-up payment of 1 Million HKD.
The HK Prize Scholarship program rewards students who excel academically, demonstrate outstanding talent in extracurricular activities and display leadership abilities. It encourages a deep knowledge of Hong Kong culture and history as well as its connections to other parts of the world, while simultaneously upholding high ethical standards and creating an awareness of responsibility among its participants. Open to all Hong Kong schoolchildren without fees involved – nominees must be nominated by teachers to enter competition; winners will receive both cash awards and an engraved gold medal at an awards ceremony held here.