Brinc launches Hong Kong’s first internet of things accelerator

Set up last year, Brinc invests in start-ups developing connected hardware under IoT, which encompasses wearables, smart devices and products for smart cities. It aims to support start-ups looking to manufacture to scale and distribute globally.

The Brinc IoT accelerator program is on its second batch, supporting seven companies from different countries. Each batch lasts about 20-24 weeks with access to cash, business consultative services and industry resources in production, sourcing, logistics and distribution. Brinc will soon begin accepting applications for a third batch and plans to take up to 10 additional start-ups this year.

Gregory So, the secretary for commerce and economic development, said in a statement that Hong Kong has "the unique capability to integrate design, software and hardware and turn ideas into commercially viable IoT products," adding that he hopes Brinc's IoT accelerator will help attract leading technology innovators to Hong Kong.

Brinc also has two offices in Shenzhen and Guangzhou, from which start-ups can access suppliers and distribution partners.

"Hong Kong has all the elements that IoT start-ups need to thrive, taking advantage of the already dynamic and growing local technology community, the city's rule of law, intellectual property protection, ease of business setup, low-tax regime, rich heritage in manufacturing and access to engineering resources," Manav Gupta, Brinc's CEO, said in the statement.

There are an increasing number of accelerators supported by both private companies and the government in Hong Kong, including Nest, Swire's Blueprint and Cyberport Accelerator Support Programme.

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• Topics
• Greater China
• Early-stage
• Technology
• China
• Hong Kong (China)
• seed
• Technology