“PolyU Showcases Nine Startups at GITEX Dubai 2025: Expanding Global Collaboration and Opportunities”
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) facilitated the participation of nine startups at GITEX North Star Expand, a prominent technology and startup event held in Dubai from October 12 to 15, 2025. This event is recognized as one of the world’s major platforms for startups to display their innovative solutions and technologies, while also seeking collaborative opportunities in global markets. Representing Hong Kong as the only university, PolyU highlighted its focus on research and knowledge transfer on an international scale.
Commitment to Entrepreneurship and Innovation
PolyU’s involvement in GITEX reflects its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, supporting Hong Kong’s technological advancements in the global arena. This initiative aligns with the Hong Kong SAR Government’s aim to promote economic growth and strengthen connections with markets in the Middle East.
Significance of PolyVentures
Professor Christopher Chao, Senior Vice President for Research and Innovation at PolyU, underscored the significance of the university’s startup ecosystem, known as PolyVentures. He indicated that this initiative offers essential support to startups throughout their entrepreneurial journey. Participation in events like GITEX enables these startups to discover new market opportunities, engage with global investors, and establish impactful partnerships, contributing to PolyU’s mission of driving innovation and enhancing Hong Kong’s technology sector on a wider stage.
Showcasing Innovations at GITEX
At GITEX, PolyU provided a dedicated pavilion for the startups to showcase their innovations, facilitating business networking and investor engagement. The startups interacted with industry leaders, explored market opportunities in Dubai, and participated in significant events organized by the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, increasing their international visibility.
Achievements of Blue Pin
One of the startups, Blue Pin, was recognized as a finalist in the Supernova Challenge, which serves as GITEX’s main pitch competition. This event features leading startup pitches globally, with opportunities for substantial funding. Additionally, Blue Pin was accepted into the TASMU Accelerator programme, which selects promising startups from a pool of thousands worldwide. With TASMU’s backing, Blue Pin aims to pursue further collaboration with various enterprises. These accomplishments illustrate the innovative capabilities of PolyU’s startups and showcase the global ambitions within the university’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Diverse Range of Innovations
The showcased innovations at GITEX included a variety of technologies, such as an algae photobioreactor system, intelligent hotel solutions, advanced medical ultrasound technology, and an AI-powered digital health platform, among others.
The Role of GITEX North Star Expand
GITEX North Star Expand, part of GITEX Global, serves as a crucial link between startups, investors, industry leaders, and accelerators. It promotes innovation and partnerships while highlighting the latest technological advancements, acting as a catalyst for success and growth in the global tech landscape.
PolyU’s Leadership in Innovation
PolyU continues to be a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, committed to nurturing future leaders by providing invaluable international exposure and networking opportunities through events like GITEX. Initiatives of this nature empower startups to emerge as influential participants in the entrepreneurial environment, driving innovations that benefit society.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, contact Ms. Idy To, Assistant Director, Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office, at 3400 2808; Ms. Hannah Liu, Officer, Public Affairs, at 2766 6375; or Ms. Hazel Cheng, Assistant Manager, Public Affairs, at 2766 4570.
Additional information about the participating startups is available through supplemental documentation provided by PolyU.
(Source: PolyU News)
