Strategic Topics Grant
The Strategic Topics Grant from the Hong Kong Research Grants Council funds collaborative research on demographic change, focusing on ageing society themes and innovative, community-impactful solutions.
Funder: Hong Kong Research Grants Council
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026: Preliminary proposal/application deadline (projected)
Funding Amounts: HK$10M–$40M per project, up to 5 years; 90% RGC, 10% university matching required
Summary: Supports collaborative research on Hong Kong’s key challenges, focusing on demographic change and ageing society themes.
Key Information: One application per PI as Project Coordinator; proposals must be submitted through a UGC-funded university.
Description
The Strategic Topics Grant (STG) is a competitive funding scheme from the Hong Kong Research Grants Council designed to support collaborative, interdisciplinary research that addresses strategic challenges relevant to Hong Kong’s development. The current focus is on “Demographic Change – Ageing Society,” encompassing themes such as health and longevity, smart technology for ageing populations, and the economic/financial aspects of a “silver society.” Proposals should demonstrate academic excellence, strong team credentials, and a clear strategy for achieving tangible community impact. Exceptionally strong proposals outside the three main subject areas but within the broader demographic change theme may also be considered.
