The Innovation & Technology Commission is inviting proposals for applied research and development projects under the Innovation & Technology Fund's Innovation & Technology Support Programme. The deadline is February 5.

There are 12 technology themes under this round of Tier 2 solicitation. They include advanced manufacturing technologies, integrated circuits, organic electronics, new technologies for high-efficiency photovoltaics, information technologies, multimedia technologies, Chinese medicine, novel medicines and medical devices, biotechnology, anti-pollution technologies and energy-saving technologies.

Proposals are also invited under Tier 3 funding - which supports R&D projects of an exploratory, forward-looking and innovative nature.

The commission aims to encourage local universities, public research institutes, industry support organisations, trade and industry associations, professional bodies and private-sector companies to make use of the fund to undertake applied R&D projects.

Details of the technology themes, application guides and procedures are available here. Further information can be obtained from the Innovation & Technology Fund Secretariat at 20/F, Wu Chung House, 213 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai, by calling 2737 2229, faxing 2957 8726, or sending an email to enquiry@itf.gov.hk.