Scheme Overview & Mandate: The Patent Application Grant (PAG) is a specialized funding scheme administered by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) and implemented by HKPC. It provides financial assistance of up to HK$ 250,000 (or 90% of total eligible expenses) to assist Hong Kong enterprises and inventors in securing patent protection globally.

1. Key Parameters of the PAG Grant

Parameter Official Standard & Compliance Details
1. Funding Ceiling Up to HK$ 250,000 per approved application
2. Funding Ratio Up to 90% Government Subsidization (Enterprise contributes remaining 10% in cash)
3. Covered Expenditures Patent search fees, patent specification drafting by certified attorneys, and official patent office filing fees
4. Eligible Patent Types Invention Patents & Functional Utility Models with novel technical merit and industrial utility
5. Target Jurisdictions Global coverage including United States (USPTO), Europe (EPO), Japan (JPO), ASEAN, and Mainland China (CNIPA)

2. Strategic Value for Alibaba.com & Global OEM Exporters

For manufacturers competing on Alibaba.com and international B2B platforms, establishing registered patent portfolios provides insurmountable technical moats against counterfeiters and unlocks premium OEM/ODM pricing power across North American and European supply chains.

3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q What is the funding ceiling for the Patent Application Grant (PAG)?

The grant amount is capped at HK$250,000 per approved application (or 90% of direct eligible costs, whichever is lower). Funds cover patent search fees, patent specification drafting by designated agents, and statutory filing fees at patent offices worldwide.

Q Can industrial manufacturers use PAG to apply for overseas patents (e.g. US USPTO, European EPO)?

Yes. PAG explicitly supports eligible Hong Kong enterprises applying for their first invention patent in any country or region, including the US (USPTO), Europe (EPO), Japan (JPO), and Mainland China (CNIPA).

Q What types of intellectual property are excluded from PAG?

PAG exclusively funds functional invention patents and utility models that demonstrate technological novelty. Design patents, pure trademark registrations, software copyrights, and domain registrations are not covered (overseas trademark registration is supported under the BUD Fund).

Q What is the evaluation workflow for PAG applications?

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) acts as the implementation agent to conduct patentability searches and technical feasibility assessments. Following a positive search report, the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) officially approves and disburses the grant.