Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem took a major step forward on the global stage as the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) wrapped up a successful mission to Viva Technology 2026 in Paris.
The event, which marked its tenth anniversary this year, brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and technology leaders from around the world between June 17 and 20.
The delegation showcased Hong Kong’s growing influence as a bridge between Asian and European innovation communities, with multiple agreements signed between HKSTP-backed companies and international partners.
Strategic Partnerships Drive Cross-Continental Collaboration
Several technology ventures from Hong Kong used the event to formalize collaborations aimed at expanding research, product development, and market access.
Sustainability-focused company Algreen entered into a partnership with South Korean climate technology specialist ForNatures.
The agreement is expected to enhance joint research efforts in carbon capture and environmental solutions, supporting broader sustainability and ESG objectives.
Meanwhile, robotics innovator Robocore secured a collaboration with Slovenian cognitive software startup ARCHTYP.
The partnership aims to integrate advanced software capabilities into Robocore’s existing platform to better meet evolving market needs.
The company also reached a commercial agreement with French advertising giant JCDecaux to supply 1,000 robots, significantly expanding its footprint across Europe.
Green Technology Solutions Attract International Interest
LeafIoT, known for its green asset management technology, generated strong interest among European organizations involved in environmental preservation and sustainability.
Among those exploring potential collaborations were the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD), Catalonia-based environmental restoration company Gremi de Jardineria de Catalunya, and Professor Andrea Galli from the Laboratory of Geotechnical Analysis and Modelling at Politecnico di Milano.
These discussions are expected to open new pathways for technological innovation while broadening the company’s presence in international markets.
Record Growth in Business Opportunities
According to HKSTP, the 2026 delegation achieved stronger results than the previous year’s participation.
The number of potential business opportunities increased by more than 50%, generating over 200 prospective leads with an estimated combined value of approximately HK$70 million.
The outcome reflects HKSTP’s ongoing efforts to help Hong Kong startups enter European markets while also encouraging European innovators to explore opportunities in Asia through Hong Kong’s strategic position within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
VivaTech Serves as a Launchpad for Global Expansion
Throughout the event, founders participated in pitching sessions, networking activities, investor meetings, and business matchmaking programs designed to accelerate international growth.
HKSTP Chief Executive Officer Terry Wong emphasized the significance of Europe as a growth destination for innovation and technology ventures from Hong Kong and mainland China.
He noted that VivaTech continues to provide an important environment for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and business development, while reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a gateway for startups seeking global expansion.
Bouygues Construction Deepens Relationship with HKSTP
One of the major developments announced during the event involved the expansion of HKSTP’s collaboration with Bouygues Construction, a French multinational recognized for its expertise in sustainable infrastructure, smart cities, transportation, and energy projects.
Through its Hong Kong subsidiary, Dragages Hong Kong, the company has maintained a presence in the city for seven decades and has contributed to numerous landmark infrastructure developments.
The firm has also invested heavily in innovations such as modular construction, green materials, automation technologies, and enhanced safety systems.
New Opportunities for Hong Kong Innovators
HKSTP remains the only institution in Hong Kong directly connected to Bouygues Construction’s Scale One program, which helps startups accelerate the transition from prototype development to commercial deployment.
The strengthened partnership will now extend beyond Asia, enabling selected Hong Kong startups to present their solutions at Bouygues’ headquarters in France.
Successful ventures may also gain opportunities to validate technologies and participate in pilot projects across the company’s European operations.
The initiative represents a significant milestone in fostering international industrial innovation and demonstrates how collaboration between startups and major global enterprises can accelerate commercialization on a global scale.
Hong Kong Tech Pavilion Showcases Market-Ready Innovation
Adding to the momentum, the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion served as a centerpiece of the event.
Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) with support from HKSTP and other partners, the pavilion featured 24 technology ventures presenting solutions across artificial intelligence, green technology, and health technology sectors.
The showcase highlighted the growing maturity of Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem while reinforcing direct connections between innovators in Hong Kong and Europe’s thriving technology landscape.
Building a Stronger Innovation Bridge Between Asia and Europe
The success of HKSTP’s participation at VivaTech 2026 demonstrates the increasing demand for collaboration between Asian and European technology ecosystems.
Through new partnerships, commercial agreements, and expanded market opportunities, Hong Kong startups are positioning themselves for broader international growth while helping strengthen innovation ties across continents.
As these relationships continue to develop, Hong Kong’s role as a gateway connecting East and West appears set to become even more influential in the global innovation economy.
