Ideal business locations for Hong Kong startups

Attracting talent from around the globe, Hong Kong’s innovative ecosystem has experienced remarkable growth, expanding to over 4,694 startups — a 40% increase — from 2020 to 2024. With its open business environment, the city provides access to abundant opportunities in the Greater Bay Area for all entrepreneurial endeavours. This setting has established Hong Kong as a vibrant ecosystem for startups and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in diverse sectors, ranging from design and gaming to finance and Innovation & Technology.

For talent arriving in Hong Kong, choosing the right location to establish your startup is a crucial step towards short-term and long-term success. Taking into account factors such as cost, convenience, access to resources, community support, and operational efficiency, this article highlights the city’s various startup-friendly areas to help transform your business vision into reality.

Cyberport and Hong Kong Science & Technology Park (HKSTP)

As a popular choice for I&T entrepreneurs, Cyberport and HKSTP extend support to startups throughout the incubation process. Beyond business matching and marketing guidance, these innovative hubs focus on building strong communities that inspire connection through regular meet-ups and mentorships.

To further encourage collaboration between like-minded professionals, Cyberport and HKSTP have also launched some of Hong Kong’s largest scalable and affordable co-working spaces. Equipped with amenities like meeting rooms, fitness centres, and high-speed Internet, they facilitate dynamic working environments that have been widely recognised by startups across industries.

Central and Western District

The Central and Western District has a long history as Hong Kong’s primary Central Business District (CBD). It comprises key commercial areas including Central, Admiralty, and Sheung Wan. Served by an extensive public transport network that includes the MTR, buses, trams, and ferries, and being close to the Central Harbourfront, its strategic location offers convenience and collaborative opportunities for your startup.

Alongside connectivity, the district’s quality infrastructure poses another great advantage. Premium offices are available through Grade A commercial buildings and more affordable co-working spaces in Sheung Wan and Sai Wan. Nearby government departments and financial institutions also ensure timely access to essential services. Together, these features create a favourable environment for growing businesses.

Kowloon East

Emerging as the city’s second CBD, Kowloon East is known for its combination of advanced infrastructure and facilities for business, sports, culture, and leisure — all complemented by a comprehensive transportation network. It comprises the Kowloon Bay, Kwun Tong and San Po Kong Business Areas, as well as the swiftly growing Kai Tak development area. Through the revitalisation of industrial buildings, this one-stop hub offers affordable workspaces for startups in FinTech, Innovation & Technology, creative industries, and other sectors.

In addition to the spacious Kwun Tong promenade and waterfront park, Kowloon East also hosts Kai Tak Sports Parks, the largest multipurpose stadium in Hong Kong. Alongside moments of leisure and recreation between working hours, these start-of-the-art amenities bring diverse cultural experiences within the community. Supported by a strong business network and abundant open spaces, the area is another ideal starting point for your entrepreneurial journey. 

Kwai Chung 

Evolving from a rural village to today’s business epicentre, Kwai Chung has become a lively community of industrial, commercial, and recreational activity. Not only is it home to Kwai Tsing Container Terminal — Hong Kong’s prime gateway for logistics and trade — the area also cultivates a vibrant cultural life through surrounding facilities like Kwai Tsing Theatre and Central Kwai Chung Park. 

Similar to other established commercial bases, Kwai Chung is characterised by excellent connectivity and convenience. Businesses in the area enjoy both proximity to public transport connections and an efficient road network for commute. 

Join Hong Kong’s thriving startup scene

Whether you’re an experienced entrepreneur or launching your first startup venture, Hong Kong’s professional landscape is well-equipped to help you succeed. Presenting a diverse range of resources and infrastructure, the city’s startup-friendly areas are there to meet your business’s unique needs at every stage.