The sixth round of applications for Professional Services Development Assistance Scheme funding will be invited from April 13.

The scheme, launched in February 2002, with an allocation of $100 million, finances projects that aim to increase the competitiveness of Hong Kong's professional services on the Mainland and other external markets.

Professional, trade, or non-profit-distributing industrial organisations as well as research institutes are eligible to apply.

Grants are given on a dollar-for-dollar matching basis. The maximum amount of grant for a project is $2 million.

A vetting committee of professionals, business people, academics and a Government official will assess applications and monitor approved projects.

In the first four rounds of applications, 73 applications were recommended by the vetting committee involving $27.9 million.

Results available next month

Applications received in the fifth round are being processed and the results will be available in mid May. Projects funded so far include conferences, training programmes, exchange visits and promotional activities.

Applications for the scheme are invited three times a year. Urgent projects which cannot be catered for by the normal application cycle will be considered separately if need-be by the vetting committee.

To facilitate interested organisations in preparing their applications, the Commerce, Industry & Technology Bureau will organise a briefing session on May 12. Helpdesk service will also be available from May 13 onwards.

Interested organisations can call the enquiry hotline 2918 7593 for details or registration. All applications for this round should reach the bureau on or before June 12.