Cyberport has launched a blockchain accelerator programme called Block AdVenture in partnership with R3 and fintech incubator FORMS HK.
Blockchain is one of the key technology clusters promoted by Cyberport. Through Block AdVenture, local startups will be equipped with a deeper knowledge of blockchain and assistance in making better use of blockchain platforms.
The programme has been designed to help startups validate their business ideas and accelerate their product-market fit through community events, workshops, mentorship from industry leaders and access to prospects and investors.
Over the three months of the programme, representatives from R3 and FORMS HK will pass on their knowledge of blockchain applications to startups and provide one-on-one coaching to help participants develop proofs of concepts (POC).
The organisers will shortlist 10 companies to take part in Block AdVenture based on three criteria – impact, innovation and technology – in the business proposal they submit. Meanwhile, coaches will look into each business idea and provide a step-by-step guide for participants to complete their POCs using Corda, R3’s enterprise blockchain platform.
The programme will end with a demo day where selected companies will be awarded cash prizes and investment matching opportunities as well as the Corda Enterprise Development License to help deploy their solution for production.
In addition, R3 will provide all participants with an extended Corda Enterprise evaluation license, free AWS cloud credit, business use case consultancy, one-on-one industry expert mentorships and technical consultancy.
Eric Chan, Chief Public Mission Officer of Cyberport, said:
“Blockchain applications have become prevalent across different industries, helping to make the information transfer in business activities more efficient and transparent. Cyberport is honoured to collaborate with R3 and FORMS HK to help more Hong Kong technology companies understand the promises of blockchain platforms and demonstrate how to leverage blockchain technology in business and daily lives.”
The programme is free of charge. Companies interested in taking part can find more details and submit applications through the programme website by 16 November.
Cyberport has also been promoting blockchain applications through a range of activities and programmes, including the “Blockchain and RegTech Speaker Series”, held between August and October this year, as well as “Hong Kong Blockchain Week”, organised with NexChange, that will take place in mid-November.
