The HK Prize is an award scheme for individuals who have ideas on how Hong Kong can promote international development and shape its role in the world. The prize offers HK$5,000 and the opportunity to present their ideas to key stakeholders in the development sector. The competition is open to everyone aged 18-30 who is either currently living in Hong Kong or from the city.

The winners will be announced in a ceremony held at the Hong Kong Science Museum on 10 November. The winners of the Prize will be selected through an independent and objective review process by a panel consisting of experts from different academic disciplines. The panel will assess the candidates’ scientific and technological innovation achievements, their transformational impact, and social or economic value creation. The Panel reserves the right to change the criteria, or to withdraw any of them, if necessary.

This year, the HK Prize will honour five scientists from different fields: astronomy, life science and medicine, mathematics, and the physical sciences. Among them, Universiti Malaya graduate Swee Lay Thein was awarded the Shaw Prize in Life Science and Medicine for her discovery of mechanisms underlying the fetal-to-adult haemoglobin switch, which has made it possible to develop revolutionary therapies against sickle cell anaemia and thalassemia.

In the past 40 years, countless people have enjoyed the hope of winning the first prize of HK$10 million. The prizes have helped many people and benefitted society at large. The profits from the lottery also help finance various government services, such as education, medical services and public utilities.

Moreover, the winnings from the HK Prize are tax-deductible. A total of 54% of the proceeds from bets is allocated to the HK Prize fund, while the rest goes towards taxes and government causes.

The HK Prize is supported by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Science Park Foundation and private companies. The Hong Kong Alliance of Technology and Innovation manages the Prize. It has a Board, which includes the Review Committee and Compliance Oversight Team, as well as a Secretariat. The Board is responsible for reviewing and interpreting the articles of The Charter; suggesting important scientific research fields for THE PRIZE; appointing members to the Review Committee and Compliance Oversight Team; and setting requirements for nominating experts. It is the highest decision-making body for THE PRIZE, and its decisions are final.

The HK Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in Hong Kong. Every year, it recognises outstanding Hong Kong artists who create works that showcase the kaleidoscope of human experiences and the interconnectedness of mankind. The artworks are unrestricted by medium and offer a vibrant exploration of what it means to be human in the interconnected world. The 2024 Prize theme, ‘Ripple Effects’, was chosen to recognise the power of art in promoting inclusion, diversity, and equity. The exhibition ‘Ripple Effects’ features the 23 shortlisted works. Find out more about the hk prize here.