DIGITAL TOOLS DRIVE SME GROWTH

The Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme, operated by Cyberport with a funding allocation of $500 million from the Government, aims to accelerate the digital transformation of local small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The programme provides funding support on a 1:1 matching basis for SMEs to adopt ready-to-use digital solutions, including digital payment solutions and shopfront sales, online promotion, and customer management and loyalty solutions.

Funding support is available for subsidised SMEs to cover up to 50% of the total project cost or a maximum of $50,000, whichever is lower.

Business boost

Li Mei-yung owns a ginseng and dried seafood shop in Shek Mun. She decided to apply for the programme last year.

As a result, the business has established an online shopping platform through an instant messaging software, allowing customers to browse product details and place orders at any time, from anywhere, significantly reducing the workload for frontline staff.

Promotions conducted via instant messaging software have also proven to be effective for expanding the customer base.

Ms Li said most of her customers are middle-aged neighbours and seniors, and she is looking to attract a younger clientele.

“As we all know, online shopping is more convenient. After we installed the system, we could inform members about which products are affordable and discounted.

“Many young people prefer not to use cash for their purchases. They believe that online shopping is more convenient as you can shop without visiting the store in person.

“I applied for the Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme, and as a result, our business grew by about 10%.”

Wider reach

Following positive feedback to the programme, it was expanded in December 2024 to cover the tourism and personal services industries besides subsidising the food and beverage and retail industries.

Cyberport Chief Public Mission Officer Eric Chan pointed out that the programme can address several issues SMEs encounter on their digital transformation journey.

“Many of those SMEs, they recognise the importance of digital transformation but they tended to have difficulties in implementing the systems in the past because of the lack of funding, the lack of technical knowledge as well as the difficulty in choosing the right solution providers.

“Through providing the funding, then we have a whole committee to help SMEs pick the right solutions, so as to guarantee the quality, to improve the overall business efficiency and help them to get more customers and retain the existing customers as well as improve convenience through digital payment and front store automation.”

Smooth process

As of the end of December 2024, Cyberport has received over 5,300 applications.

The programme has provided more than 810 solution packages from over 110 solution providers for SMEs to select from.

The vetting process will normally be completed within two months after receiving complete information from the applicants.

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