Innovative move: Federation of Youth Groups Honorary Secretary Walter Chan and Commissioner for Innovation & Technology Anthony Wong officiate at the launch ceremony of the Innovation Festival '07.

The Innovation Festival '07 will nurture young people's interest in technology and groom more local talent in the field, Commissioner for Innovation & Technology Anthony Wong said at its opening today.

With a theme of "let's innovate ... for a new era", the 10-week event will enhance public awareness of Hong Kong's achievements in innovation, technology and design.

The festival's highlight, Innovation Expo '07, will be held September 14 to 18 at the Convention & Exhibition Centre. More than 100 organisations will display exhibits and the State Ministry of Science & Technology will showcase other high-tech projects.

Roadshows will be held at apm in Kwun Tong from today to September 2, Cityplaza in Taikoo Shing from October 5 to 7, and Tuen Mun Town Plaza from October 12 to 14. A design exhibition will be held at the InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong from October 17 to November 7.

Many other interactive programmes will promote the event, including 20 seminars, more than 140 DesignTech workshops, and innovation and technology competitions.