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InnoHK R&D Centres Establish Base at Science Park to Drive Emerging Industries and Pioneer Future Innovation

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InnoHK

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 September 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with the Innovation and Technology Commission, successfully hosted the launch ceremony for the third InnoHK research cluster (SEAM@InnoHK) at Hong Kong Science Park today. Focusing on emerging domains such as sustainable development, energy, advanced manufacturing, and materials, SEAM@InnoHK is jointly led by top local and international academic and research institutions. The platform demonstrates Hong Kong’s robust R&D capabilities and global collaboration networks while promising tangible societal benefits, further solidifying Hong Kong’s role as an international I&T hub.

 




  

Officiating guests at the Launch Ceremony included Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry (front row, centre); Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP (front row, 4th from right); Mr Kelvin Choi, Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry (front row, 4th from left); Mr Lyu Feng, Deputy Director-General of the Economic and Financial Department II of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR (front row, 3th from right); Mr Ivan Lee, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology (front row, 3th from left); and Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP (front row, 1st from right).

The launch ceremony was officiated by key guests including Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP; Mr Kelvin Choi, Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Mr Lyu Feng, Deputy Director-General of the Economic and Financial Department II of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR; Mr Ivan Lee, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology; and Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP. They were joined by representatives and scholars from local and overseas universities, international research organizations, R&D centres, and industry partners to witness the launch of SEAM@InnoHK and explore its R&D roadmap and industrial application prospects.

Building a Flourishing Ecosystem to Empower R&D Commercialisation

As the largest I&T ecosystem in Hong Kong, HKSTP provides comprehensive professional support and resources to the R&D centres under SEAM@InnoHK. This encompasses world-class R&D infrastructure, seamless connections with academic institutions, talent pools, and investor networks, as well as matchmaking with funding and industry partners—empowering teams to transform breakthrough research into scalable, high-impact commercial solutions.

Ms Cordelia Chung, Chairman of HKSTP, said: “InnoHK has been with the Science Park for 5 years and this is the start of the second 5-year period. What we can see is that InnoHK has demonstrated the power of collaboration amongst world eminent scholars, researchers, and global partners. The first two clusters, Health@InnoHK and AIR@InnoHK have delivered world-class achievements. We commit to provide all the support we can to the InnoHK teams, as your success will add to the heartbeat of the ecosystem—not only for HKSTP, but for Hong Kong’s entire innovation landscape.”

Gathering Global Scientific Excellence to Drive Breakthroughs

The eight R&D centres under SEAM@InnoHK have brought together over 30 top global universities and research institutions, including the University of Cambridge, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Nagoya University, National University of Singapore, Tsinghua University, and Peking University.

Notably, three R&D centres feature collaborations with Nobel Laureates: Professor Ben L. Feringa from the University of Groningen (2016 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry), who participates in the research at the InnoHK Centre of Functional Materials for Energy and Sustainability (CFMES); Sir Konstantin Novoselov, renowned as the “Father of Graphene” from the National University of Singapore (2010 Nobel Laureate in Physics), who serves as principle investigator for the Inno Centre for Heterogeneous Integration and Production (CHIP); and Professor Hiroshi Amano from Nagoya University (2014 Nobel Laureate in Physics), who participates in research at InnoHK Power Semiconductors and Applications Center (PowerSAC). This stellar international scientific lineup highlights Hong Kong’s unique advantages in assembling world-class research talent, fostering cross-border collaboration, and driving technological innovation, further consolidating its status as a global hub for research cooperation.

InnoHK is a flagship I&T initiative of the HKSAR Government aimed at developing Hong Kong into a global hub for scientific research cooperation. It encourages world-leading universities and research institutes to conduct collaborative research with local institutions by establishing R&D centres in Hong Kong. Together with “Health@InnoHK”, focusing on healthcare technologies and “AIR@InnoHK”, focusing on AI and robotics technologies, the three InnoHK research clusters will further enrich Hong Kong’s world-class scientific landscape, accelerating technology transfer, startup incubation, and the growth of the I&T industry.

Introduction to the Eight SEAM@InnoHK R&D Centres (For details, please refer to the Appendix):
InnoHK Centre for Advanced and Smart Manufacturing (CASM): Lead global manufacturing toward Industry 5.0 by fusing AI, advanced materials, additive manufacturing and digital twins to create smart, sustainable, and human-centered solutions.
InnoHK Centre of Functional Materials for Energy and Sustainability (CFMES): Advance breakthrough discoveries in functional materials to address bottleneck challenges related to energy and sustainability.
InnoHK Centre for Heterogeneous Integration and Production (CHIP): Advance next-generation electronics through innovations in semiconductor equipment and material processing, with a focus on advancing heterogeneous integration technologies.
InnoHK Centre for Space Manufacturing Technology (CSMT): Establish a world-class hub for international research collaboration in space manufacturing, integrating cutting-edge R&D in advanced materials and additive processes with demonstration and applied innovation in Hong Kong.
InnoHK Hong Kong Center for Renewable Energy and Storage (HKCRES): Develop and integrate high-performance perovskite photovoltaics, green hydrogen systems, and next-generation batteries via an end-to-end innovation framework in Hong Kong.
InnoHK Power Semiconductors and Applications Center (PowerSAC): Develop advanced power semiconductors, intelligent chips and system technologies for more efficient, compact and reliable power conversion.
InnoHK Research Centre for Intelligent GRID and Energy Technologies (I-GET): Develop intelligent, green and transformative grid and energy technologies for resilient, efficient and carbon-neutral cities.
InnoHK Sustainable Materials & Advanced Renewable Technologies (SMART Centre): Leverage artificial intelligence and smart automation technologies to accelerate materials discovery for circular waste upcycling, repurposing, and next-generation clean energy technologies.

About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation
Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 and has built a proven foundation as Hong Kong’s leading innovation and technology (I&T) ecosystem. Established for 25 years, HKSTP is supporting 14 unicorns, has nurtured more than 17,000 research professionals and built a community of over 2,400 technology companies from 26 countries and regions across four strategic technology clusters: Life and Health Technology, AI and Data Science, Micro-electronics, and New Energy and Green Technology.

As an ecosystem orchestrator, HKSTP provides end-to-end support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate commercialisation and help technology ventures scale. Its innovation infrastructure spans over 240 hectares covering Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong, and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long, advancing Hong Kong’s vision for new industrialisation and smart manufacturing.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen, strengthens cross-border collaboration by connecting Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland and global innovation networks and propels Chinese innovators onto the world stage, while also delivering comprehensive GBA landing support to accelerate cross-border success for local and international ventures.

As HKSTP enters its next chapter with strong foundations, it continues to deepen impact, elevate quality and create value for innovators. As an ecosystem built to lead change, HKSTP is empowering Hong Kong to define what comes next in innovation, growth and opportunity.
 




 

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Energy

African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) Chief Urges Joint National Oil Companies (NOCs) Projects at 8th Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) Forum During African Energy Week (AEW)

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4 hours ago

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October 13, 2026

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African Energy Week

African Energy Week is currently hosting the 8th Annual APPO NOCs CEOs Forum at the CTICC in Cape Town

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, October 13, 2026/APO Group/ –H.E. Farid Ghezali, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) has issued a direct call to African National Oil Companies (NOCs) to move beyond high-level dialogue and focus on strategic cooperation for fast tracked delivery of upstream projects and local value creation.

 




 
 

Speaking at the 8th annual meeting of the CEOs of APPO NOCs at African Energy Week (AEW) on Monday, Ghezali emphasized that NOCs are no longer just oil companies, but vital platforms for national energy security and economic sovereignty.

Africa does not need an architecture of good intentions, but an architecture of delivery

“We have moved to how much value Africa can create from the energy it produces,” he stated, highlighting that NOCs must play a decisive role in reversing this imbalance. “To build a competitive sector, African NOCs must strengthen internal partnerships across critical areas, including refining technology, gas infrastructure, petrochemicals, and project financing.”

He urged African NOCs to combine domestic capacities, assets, and off-take agreements to de-risk projects and build a robust pipeline of bankable energy initiatives. The Secretary General highlighted the African Energy Bank as a crucial mechanism to ensure NOCs can finance strategic projects which they cooperate own to enhance regional energy sovereignty.

To ensure long-term impact, the Secretary General challenged delegates to focus on practical outcomes, asking: Which projects can our NOCs develop together? Where can we create integrated value chains? Which projects are we prepared to execute right now?

“Africa does not need an architecture of good intentions, but an architecture of delivery,” the Secretary General concluded, stressing that the true success of industry forums will be measured not by the conversations held, but by the tangible investments, implemented projects, and economic opportunities delivered to African citizens.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

 

 




 

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Business

Kholo Capital provides R275 million (US$17 million) mezzanine debt funding to DCC Holdings to support refinancing and future growth

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7 hours ago

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October 13, 2026

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The funding will refinance existing debt and support DCC’s long-term growth strategy

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, October 13, 2026/APO Group/ –Kholo Capital Mezzanine Debt Fund I (“Kholo Capital”) (www.KholoCapital.com) today announced the provision of R275 million (US$17 million) in mezzanine debt funding to DCC Holdings Proprietary Limited (“DCC”), a leading South African information and communications technology (“ICT”) distributor with an established presence across Southern Africa. The funding will refinance existing debt and support DCC’s long-term growth strategy.

 




 
 

DCC is a leading South African distributor of ICT products and solutions, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products across personal computing, printing, enterprise infrastructure and software. The business distributes products from leading global technology manufacturers, including HP, Dell and Lenovo, to an extensive network of resellers, system integrators and retailers across Southern Africa.

Founded in 1988, DCC has grown into an established participant in the Southern African ICT distribution market, with a distribution network and logistics infrastructure serving customers across the region. The business plays an important role in the ICT supply chain, connecting international technology manufacturers with local resellers and retailers.

Mokgome Mogoba, Managing Partner and Founder of Kholo Capital, commented:  “We are delighted to support DCC’s highly experienced management team as the business enters its next phase of growth. The business is backed by Kleoss Capital, a highly competent private equity investor. This transaction demonstrates how structured mezzanine debt capital can be used to optimise a company’s capital structure, refinance existing debt and provide the financial flexibility required to support sustainable growth. DCC has established itself as one of South Africa’s leading ICT distributors, with a strong market position underpinned by longstanding relationships with leading global technology manufacturers, an extensive reseller network and well-established logistics and distribution capabilities.”

We are delighted to support DCC’s highly experienced management team as the business enters its next phase of growth

Zaheer Cassim, Managing Partner and Founder of Kholo Capital, added: “Over nearly four decades, DCC has built a formidable distribution platform, combining extensive market reach, strong logistics capabilities and a deep understanding of its channel partners’ needs. Beyond its commercial strengths, DCC’s investment in youth employment, support for learners with disabilities and SME reseller development reflects a commitment to inclusive growth. Its adoption of solar energy and water-saving measures further demonstrates a practical approach to responsible business. We believe DCC is well positioned to capitalise on opportunities across the Southern African ICT market, and we are pleased to partner with management in advancing growth that delivers both commercial value and meaningful social impact.”

Hale Matsipa, Managing Partner of Kleoss, said: “Kleoss Capital has valued the opportunity to work with Kholo Capital on this transaction, which positions DCC for its next phase of growth. It also reflects the positive momentum in South Africa’s private markets and marks another successful collaboration between Kleoss Capital and a fellow private markets investor. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Kholo Capital team.”

Carlos Ferreira, CEO of DCC, added: “DCC’s shareholders, comprising senior management and Kleoss Capital, are pleased to introduce Kholo Capital into the capital structure of the DCC group. DCC has been growing steadily over the years with the addition of certain key brands and the expansion of our existing footprint within our established vendor relationships. Together with our capital partners, we look forward to the next chapter in the evolution of the business with continued optimism.”

Deneys acted as legal counsel to Kholo Capital.

Webber Wentzel acted as legal counsel to DCC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kholo Capital.

 

 




 

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Verdant Capital Hybrid Fund (VCHF) publishes inaugural Annual Impact Report: investees estimated to have created over 316,000 jobs

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10 hours ago

on

October 13, 2026

By

Verdant Capital

The findings provide an important baseline for tracking impact over time, combining investee-level data with insights from end customers on how access to finance is influencing their businesses and households

We are committed to using the data and insights from these studies to strengthen our approach and deepen our impact measurement

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, October 12, 2026/APO Group/ –Verdant Capital (www.Verdant-Cap.com) believes that the true measure of investment goes beyond capital deployed and financial returns. It is also reflected in the businesses that grow, the jobs they create and the lives they help transform.

In 2025, the Fund took an important step towards strengthening its impact measurement approach by commissioning 60 Decibels (https://apo-opa.co/4dAqYdi) to build an industry-standard impact management framework and conduct independent impact measurement across its investment portfolio. Job creation is Verdant Capital Hybrid Fund’s primary impact objective, and the studies were designed to strengthen the Fund’s understanding of how its investments contribute to employment and broader economic opportunities.

 




 
 

As part of this process, VCHF developed an impact thesis for each investee, and commissioned baseline studies to understand who its investees reach, how their services influence the lives of their customers and, most importantly, their contribution to job creation.

The findings provide an important baseline for tracking impact over time, combining investee-level data with insights from end customers on how access to finance is influencing their businesses and households.

“Our conviction has always been that the right capital, combined with hands-on technical support, can help African financial service providers reach underserved businesses, create jobs and improve livelihoods.” said Edmund Higgenbottam, Chief Executive Officer of Verdant Capital. “Our first impact studies provide encouraging evidence of this, but this is only the beginning. We are committed to using the data and insights from these studies to strengthen our approach and deepen our impact measurement”.

Key Impact Highlights as of 31 December 2025

  •  USD 39.5 million deployed across six investments.
  • 179,000+ MSMEs reached.
  • 316,000+ jobs created across the portfolio, with an additional 1,066,000+ jobs supported.
  • 24 Technical Assistance projects delivered for investees, supported by KfW on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
  • Six investees operating across 12 African countries, mainly low income and lower-middle income countries.

VCHF has made six investments in inclusive financial institutions to date: WATU, Mogo, LOLC Africa, Zeepay, UsPlus and Bfree. Through these investments, the Fund helps expand access to financial solutions that enable individuals and small businesses to grow their enterprises, strengthen their incomes and contribute to employment generation. The highlights above are drawn from independent 60 Decibels studies with over 850 customers across four investees.

Looking ahead, VCHF has USD 51 million in AUM and plans to grow its portfolio through additional investments and expansion into new markets over the coming years. The Fund is also seeking to mobilise additional capital from investors who share its commitment to delivering commercial returns alongside measurable impact.

Beyond the numbers are the stories of individuals accessing financial services, entrepreneurs expanding their businesses, households strengthening their livelihoods and businesses contributing to more resilient value chains.

This report marks an important milestone in VCHF’s impact journey. It strengthens the Fund’s understanding of the outcomes associated with its investments and reinforces its commitment to measuring not only the scale of its reach, but also the changes experienced by the people and businesses behind the numbers.

Verdant Capital extends its sincere appreciation to its partner, KfW Development Bank, for its continued support, and to its investees for their commitment and collaboration throughout this process.

Verdant Capital also extends its appreciation to 60 Decibels for its valuable partnership as the impact measurement advisor, as well as to the entire Verdant Capital Hybrid Fund team for its dedication and contribution to this important milestone.

Together with its partners, VCHF continues to demonstrate that commercial returns and meaningful impact can go hand in hand.

Read the full report here: Click Here (https://apo-opa.co/4B26qV8)

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Verdant Capital.

 

 




 

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