Fintech
Strengthening Business Connectivity Between Fintechs, Corporates and Investors
Investing in Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced that the seventh edition of the Global Fast Track (GFT), 2024 is now open for applications until September 20. The programme is open to global and local fintech companies, offering opportunities to present their cases on international stages and benefit from mentoring and business matchmaking to unlock their potential. The global finalists of the GFT pitch competition will compete in the grand finale at the Hong Kong Fintech Week (HKFW). This year’s new features will further strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a leading international fintech hub.
InvestHK’s Global Head of Financial Services, Fintech and Sustainability, Mr. King Leung, said: “Over the past few years, Global Fast Track has evolved into a fintech-friendly platform. We have helped over 1,000 fintech companies from over 50 economies showcase their cutting-edge innovations and accelerate their market entry in Hong Kong and beyond. We are excited to build on this success and continue to offer unparalleled access to a global network of over 100 investors and business champions, mentors and industry leaders through GFT 2024.”
Mr. Leung added: “With the introduction of new capabilities this year, we aim to further unlock the true potential of innovation in the fintech sector and provide a launchpad for breakthrough solutions to have a transformative impact. I look forward to welcoming high-caliber candidates from around the world and the extraordinary outcomes that will emerge from this program.”
New features for GFT 2024
1. Unparalleled networking opportunities
These include:
- ongoing one-on-one meetings facilitated by the GFT matchmaking platform;
- Founders Champions Night (New) – Successful local champions from Hong Kong who have raised funds, been acquired or expanded internationally will take part in an exclusive networking session with GFT finalists;
- More (new) international champions – champions such as investors and financial institutions from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region have been integrated into GFT to facilitate two-way connectivity between the GCC region and Hong Kong; and
- Investor Network Night (new): Companies can connect with leading investors behind the program, creating the conditions for them to present their potential growth and funding opportunities.
2. Featured Verticals for 2024
In addition to the FinTech and AI tracks that have been a pillar of GFT, the 2024 edition will introduce three new verticals: ESG/Green Fintech, Blockchain and Insurance/HealthTech. This expansion is in line with the changing landscape and emerging trends in the financial services sector.
This year, the semi-finalists from each track will be invited to Hong Kong to pitch their project in person on stage during HKFW, with the grand finale taking place on day two. This is an unparalleled opportunity for qualified fintech innovators to showcase their profile in front of an audience of thousands of people, key businesses and investors looking for fintech solutions and investment opportunities. Previous winners have come from all over the world, including Canada, France, Israel, Mainland China, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the UK and the US.
InvestHK is excited to work alongside Finoverse, the appointed co-organiser of GFT 2024, to take the programme to new heights. For details of the full GFT 2024 programme and application process, please visit here.