Applied Research and Development

Major efforts have been made to encourage applied research and
development in recent years. The Applied Research and Development
Scheme (ARDS) and the Co-operative Applied Research and Development
Scheme (CARDS) were set up in February 1993 and June 1995
respectively to encourage technology ventures in the private sector. The
latter scheme specifically supports technology projects undertaken in
collaboration with research institutes in the Mainland. Funding support
can take the form of a loan or equity participation. As at August 1997,
funding support had been given to 19 ARDS projects and six CARDS
projects in various high technology fields, including biotechnology,
electronics, environmental technology, information technology, robotic
engineering and telecommunication. The funding commitments made
under the two schemes were $56 million and $32 million respectively.

[Back] [Forward]