Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme invites new round of applications

     The Professional Services Advancement Support Scheme (PASS) is inviting a new round of applications today (September 7) from non-profit-distributing organisations such as professional bodies, trade or industrial organisations and research institutes.

     PASS, with a total allocation of $200 million, aims at funding non-profit-making industry-led projects for increasing exchanges and co-operation of Hong Kong's professional services with external counterparts, promoting relevant publicity activities, and enhancing the standards of Hong Kong professional services through capacity building programmes. 

     The maximum grant under PASS for each approved project is $3 million or 90 per cent of the total eligible project cost, whichever is lower. A wide range of professional services is covered by PASS, including accounting, legal, building and construction, healthcare, information and communications technology, design, and technical testing and analysis. Sector-specific projects and cross-sectoral projects are both welcome.

     So far, 25 projects have been funded under PASS, including seminars, forums, workshops, exchange events, exhibitions, and research and studies. Costs directly incurred for implementing a project, such as manpower cost, venue and set up cost, production and promotion cost, and the project team's travel and accommodation cost outside Hong Kong, are typical items funded. More details about PASS and the funded projects are available at www.pass.gov.hk.

     PASS receives applications all year round and they are processed on a quarterly basis. The deadline for the upcoming round of applications is November 30.

     A briefing session will be held on September 14 for organisations interested in applying for PASS funding. For registration for the briefing session or other enquiries, please contact the PASS Secretariat at 3655 5418 or pass@cedb.gov.hk.