The SME Export Marketing Fund (EMF) — also known as the EMF Fund or EMF Funding — is a government subsidy scheme established by the Hong Kong Government to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in expanding into overseas markets. The scheme aims to assist Hong Kong SMEs in participating in various export marketing activities, particularly those that help them enter international markets and enhance their global brand visibility.
The following information/measure(s) take effect from 14 March 2025:
The above EMF updates are sourced from Hong Kong Government press releases and official published documents
The approved funding ratio between the Government and enterprises has been revised from1:1to1:3however, the maximum funding ceiling per application remains atHK$100,000
The proportion of the first instalment of government-approved funding has been adjusted from75%to20%
The maximum funding for each project is 50% of the approved promotional activity expenditure or HK$100,000, whichever is lower.In other words, if your promotional activity expenses are relatively low, you will receive funding equal to 50% of the approved expenditure. However, even if your expenses are higher, the maximum funding for a single project will not exceed HK$100,000.
The scope of EMF funding is relatively broad, covering a wide range of marketing and promotional activitiesWhether it involves offline international exhibitions and business matching events, or online digital advertising and social media promotion, all are covered under the funding scope. Such activities facilitate enterprises’ expansion into overseas markets and contribute to the growth of export sales.
Applications for EMF Funding are accepted year-round, and at present there is no specified application deadline imposed by the Hong Kong Government.Businesses may submit their applications in line with their marketing schedules. Nevertheless, despite the absence of a fixed EMF deadline, early submission is recommended to ensure timely approval and proper planning of promotional activities.
Prior to application submission, applicants are advised to thoroughly review and understand the EMF eligibility requirements and procedures to ensure an efficient and seamless funding process.
You may also visit the Trade and Industry Department (TID) website and access the “SME Support and Consultation Centre (SUCCESS)”[EMF Online Application]for reference and guidance.
The maximum funding for each project is 50% of the approved promotional activity expenditure or HK$100,000, whichever is lower.In other words, if your promotional activity expenses are relatively low, you will receive funding equal to 50% of the approved expenditure. However, even if your expenses are higher, the maximum funding for a single project will not exceed HK$100,000.
The scope of EMF funding is relatively broad, covering a wide range of marketing and promotional activitiesWhether it involves offline international exhibitions and business matching events, or online digital advertising and social media promotion, all are covered under the funding scope. Such activities facilitate enterprises’ expansion into overseas markets and contribute to the growth of export sales.
Applications for EMF Funding are accepted year-round, and at present there is no specified application deadline imposed by the Hong Kong Government.Businesses may submit their applications in line with their marketing schedules. Nevertheless, despite the absence of a fixed EMF deadline, early submission is recommended to ensure timely approval and proper planning of promotional activities.
Prior to application submission, applicants are advised to thoroughly review and understand the EMF eligibility requirements and procedures to ensure an efficient and seamless funding process.
You may also visit the Trade and Industry Department (TID) website and access the “SME Support and Consultation Centre (SUCCESS)”[EMF Online Application]for reference and guidance.
End-to-end support for company setup, funding applications, and project execution, seamlessly managed by our expert team
Any enterprise that is registered in Hong Kong, has substantive business operations, and conducts promotional activities related to its export business is eligible to apply for EMF funding.
Any promotional activity that helps expand into overseas markets may be eligible for funding. This includes participation in overseas exhibitions, trade missions, social media promotion, and other activities that support international market development.
EMF funding applications are open year-round, and currently the Government has not set a specific deadline. Enterprises may therefore arrange their application timing flexibly according to their marketing plans and make full use of the funding to expand their business.
