The University of Hong Kong (HKU) and Gobi Partners, a venture capital (VC) firm based in Malaysia and Hong Kong, have announced the first close of a joint investment initiative, the Gobi–HKU Fund I, during a ceremony marking its launch and initial investments.

In a statement on Tuesday, the University of Hong Kong said the fund is established under HKU’s Entrepreneurship Engine Fund and operates in a fund-of-funds format. It can support startup development and contribute to Hong Kong’s innovation and technology sector by investing in university spin-offs. The initiative will provide financial resources and strategic support aimed at commercializing research outcomes.

Speaking at the event, HKU representatives said the fund reflects the university’s efforts to translate research into practical applications and to support the growth of startups emerging from its ecosystem.

Chibo Tang, Managing Partner of Gobi Partners, noted that collaboration with universities can help bridge the gap between research and commercialization, particularly in sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and biotechnology.

Clara Chan, CEO of the Hong Kong Investment Corporation Limited also highlighted the role of such initiatives in fostering collaboration across investment, industry, academia, and research, with the aim of supporting long-term development of the innovation ecosystem.

Startups including Manifold Tech and AilsynBio, which have received support from the joint fund, presented their technologies and development plans at the ceremony. Manifold Tech is focused on 3D reconstruction and robotics applications, while AilsynBio is developing an AI-based platform for peptide drug discovery.

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