2016 2017 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 2021-22 2022-23 2023-24 2024-25
Empowering Entrepreneurs.
Transforming Ideas into Impact.
ALIBABA HONG KONG ENTREPRENEURS FUND (AEF)
  • Established in 2015 with a HK$1 billion(US$130 million) pledge from Alibaba Group.
  • Dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and young talent in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
  • Committed to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology development to drive positive change.
OUR IMPACT
(SINCE 2015)
  • US$93 million invested in 83 startups.
  • 7 unicorns supported, including Hong Kong’s first NASDAQ-listed unicorn.
  • US$2.8 billion co-invested by global investors.
  • 130+ AI startups accelerated through HKAI Lab.
  • 520,000 attendees, 7,300+ startups and 1,700+ investors, corporates & industry experts from 100+ regions & countries participated in JUMPSTARTER.
WHY PARTNER
WITH US?
  • US$2.8 billion+ co-invested with global investors.
  • Access to a US$1.6 trillion economy in the Greater Bay Area.
  • Sustainable model – Profits reinvested to fund future entrepreneurs.
  • AEF NextGen Fund – A US$150 million venture fund investing in AI-driven startups across Financial Services, Consumer Retail, Healthcare, Construction & Properties, and Arts & Entertainment, managed by NextGen Partners.
  • Alibaba’s global ecosystem provides startups with a competitive edge in commercialization and market expansion.
ALIBABA HONG KONG ENTREPRENEURS FUND (AEF)
  • Established in 2015 with a HK$1 billion(US$130 million) pledge from Alibaba Group.
  • Dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs and young talent in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
  • Committed to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology development to drive positive change.
OUR IMPACT
(SINCE 2015)
  • US$93 million invested in 83 startups.
  • 7 unicorns supported, including Hong Kong’s first NASDAQ-listed unicorn.
  • US$2.8 billion co-invested by global investors.
  • 130+ AI startups accelerated through HKAI Lab.
  • 520,000 attendees, 7,300+ startups and 1,700+ investors, corporates & industry experts from 100+ regions & countries participated in JUMPSTARTER.
WHY PARTNER
WITH US?
  • US$2.8 billion+ co-invested with global investors.
  • Access to a US$1.6 trillion economy in the Greater Bay Area.
  • Sustainable model – Profits reinvested to fund future entrepreneurs.
  • AEF NextGen Fund – A US$150 million venture fund investing in AI-driven startups across Financial Services, Consumer Retail, Healthcare, Construction & Properties, and Arts & Entertainment, managed by NextGen Partners.
  • Alibaba’s global ecosystem provides startups with a competitive edge in commercialization and market expansion.
OUR MILESTONE:
PIONEERING INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
2015
2017
2018
2019-
2020
2021
2024
2025
& Beyond
AEF IS BORN
LAUNCH OF JUMPSTARTER
LEADING THE AI REVOLUTION
TAKING JUMPSTARTER GLOBAL
DEEPENING GBA COMMITMENT
POWERING THE AI-DRIVEN FUTURE
INVESTING IN GAME-CHANGERS
  • HK$1 billion (US$130 million) commitment from Alibaba Group.
  • Announced by Alibaba founder Jack Ma to empower Hong Kong’s entrepreneurs and young talent.
  • AEF Hong Kong Fund launched – the first VC fund dedicated to Hong Kong-linked startups.
  • Hong Kong’s largest startup event and pitch competition.
  • Opened by Jack Ma, setting the stage for future entrepreneurs.
  • First tech startup event organized by a homegrown Hong Kong private entity.
  • Established HKAI Lab, accelerating 130+ AI startups with mentorship and resources.
  • First AI incubator in Hong Kong.
  • World’s largest online startup pitch competition, reaching 20,000 fans across 100+ countries.
  • AEF GBA Fund officially incorporated, reinforcing long-term investment in regional innovation.
  • Launched SEED Foundation to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.
  • Celebrating a decade of impact, AEF launches its third fund to accelerate AI-powered startups.
  • US$93 million invested across groundbreaking ventures.
  • AEF NextGen Fund backs AI-driven startups solving real-world challenges in Financial Services, Consumer Retail, Healthcare, Construction & Property, and Arts & Entertainment.
  • Scaling impact: Focused on high-growth companies ready to expand globally.
  • Driving sustainable innovation: Committed to socially responsible investments that create lasting change.
2015
AEF IS BORN
  • HK$1 billion (US$130 million) commitment from Alibaba Group.
  • Announced by Alibaba founder Jack Ma to empower Hong Kong’s entrepreneurs and young talent.
  • AEF Hong Kong Fund launched – the first VC fund dedicated to Hong Kong-linked startups.
2017
LAUNCH OF
JUMPSTARTER
  • Hong Kong’s largest startup event and pitch competition.
  • Opened by Jack Ma, setting the stage for future entrepreneurs.
  • First tech startup event organized by a homegrown Hong Kong private entity.
2018
LEADING THE
AI REVOLUTION
  • Established HKAI Lab, accelerating 130+ AI startups with mentorship and resources.
  • First AI incubator in Hong Kong.
2019-2020
TAKING
JUMPSTARTER GLOBAL
  • World’s largest online startup pitch competition, reaching 20,000 fans across 100+ countries.
2021
DEEPENING GBA
COMMITMENT
  • AEF GBA Fund officially incorporated, reinforcing long-term investment in regional innovation.
  • Launched SEED Foundation to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.
2024
POWERING
THE AI-DRIVEN FUTURE
  • Celebrating a decade of impact, AEF launches its third fund to accelerate AI-powered startups.
  • US$93 million invested across groundbreaking ventures.
2025 & Beyond
INVESTING IN
GAME-CHANGERS
  • AEF NextGen Fund backs AI-driven startups solving real-world challenges in Financial Services, Consumer Retail, Healthcare, Construction & Property, and Arts & Entertainment.
  • Scaling impact: Focused on high-growth companies ready to expand globally.
  • Driving sustainable innovation: Committed to socially responsible investments that create lasting change.
INVESTMENT AT A GLANCE
Since 2015, AEF has been fueling the growth of innovative startups, creating impact and driving success in Hong Kong and beyond.
US$93M
INVESTED
13,400
BUSINESS PLANS
REVIEWED
83
COMPANIES FUNDED
(INCLUDING 21 FROM HKAI LAB)
4
REALIZED
INVESTMENTS
2,200+
JOBS CREATED
IN HONG KONG
A SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT MODEL: FUELING INNOVATION FOR LASTING IMPACT
AEF drives a continuous cycle of investment, reinvestment, and impact—supporting visionary founders, accelerating business growth, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship.
STRATEGIC FUNDING FOR HIGH-POTENTIAL STARTUPS
AEF provides the capital and resources startups need to scale, innovate, and lead in their industries.
  • AEF Hong Kong Fund – The first VC fund dedicated to startups with a Hong Kong nexus.
  • AEF Greater Bay Area Fund – Driving growth and cross-border opportunities in the GBA.
  • AEF NextGen Fund – Backing AI-powered startups to solve global challenges.
REINVESTING RETURNS TO FUND THE NEXT WAVE OF INNOVATION
Investment profits are reinvested into AEF, ensuring a sustainable model that continuously nurtures the next generation of trailblazing startups.
EMPOWERING FOUNDERS TO BUILD TRANSFORMATIVE COMPANIES
By investing in ambitious entrepreneurs, AEF fuels the creation of game-changing businesses that drive technology, innovation, and economic progress.
SCALING BUSINESSES WITH PURPOSE
AEF-backed startups generate real impact—creating jobs, advancing industries, and promoting ESG-driven growth.
EMPOWERING FUTURE INNOVATORS & STARTUPS
AEF is shaping the next generation of innovators by providing funding, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities —
bridging the gap between ambition and success.
SEED
FOUNDATION
Unlocking Future
Skills for All
HKAI
LAB
Powering AI &
Deep Tech Startups
VENTURE
HOURS
Where Startups
Meet Investors
POWERING HIGH-GROWTH STARTUPS WITH CAPITAL
& MARKET ACCESS
#1
INVESTING IN HIGH-POTENTIAL STARTUPS FROM THE START
Clearbot
Accelerating University Innovations to Market
Clearbot is revolutionizing waterway cleaning with AI-powered autonomous robotic boats. AEF has played a pivotal role in its journey:
  • Awarded Clearbot as the winner of JUMPSTARTER 2020 Idea POP!, providing initial funding to transform its university IP into a working prototype.
  • Supported Clearbot through HKAI Lab, offering crucial resources like GPUs and cloud credits, and amplifying media exposure via SCMP. This visibility led to a strategic partnership with Razer Group, which refined Clearbot’s prototype into a market-ready product.
  • Selected as a JUMPSTARTER 2022 winner and led its seed round, helping Clearbot secure key contracts with Sino Group and EMSD.
  • Today, Clearbot is making waves beyond Hong Kong, spearheading efforts to clean India’s waterways.
Qupital
Unlocking Growth Through Alibaba’s Global Ecosystem
Qupital is a fintech powerhouse specializing in supply chain financing for e-commerce merchants. With AEF’s backing:
  • Connected to Alibaba’s ecosystem, including Cainiao, Lazada, and WorldFirst, expanding its client base and market reach.
  • As of 2024, Qupital has disbursed over US$2 billion in loans, leveraging its AI-powered credit model to fuel e-commerce growth worldwide.
Sandbox VR
Resilience and Global Expansion Amid Challenges
As the leader in hyper-immersive VR experiences, Sandbox VR transforms entertainment with motion capture, haptics, and cutting-edge technology. AEF has supported its journey from startup to global brand:
  • Invested in Sandbox VR’s seed round in 2017 and provided critical financing through multiple rounds.
  • During the pandemic, AEF delivered lifeline financial support, enabling Sandbox VR to navigate widespread lockdowns that impacted its retail locations.
  • Post-pandemic, Sandbox VR has tripled its franchise operators in 2024 and continues to expand rapidly worldwide.
viAct
From Local AI Incubation to Global Expansion
viAct is Asia’s leading AI-driven workplace safety solution:
  • AEF led its seed round and selected viAct for HKAI Lab, equipping the company with critical AI development resources.
  • Facilitated commercial deals through HKAI Lab’s solution matching program, connecting viAct with industry leaders like Shui On.
  • viAct’s footprint now extends beyond Hong Kong to Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, driving safer, smarter work environments.
Clearbot
Accelerating University Innovations to Market
Clearbot is revolutionizing waterway cleaning with AI-powered autonomous robotic boats. AEF has played a pivotal role in its journey:
  • Awarded Clearbot as the winner of JUMPSTARTER 2020 Idea POP!, providing initial funding to transform its university IP into a working prototype.
  • Supported Clearbot through HKAI Lab, offering crucial resources like GPUs and cloud credits, and amplifying media exposure via SCMP. This visibility led to a strategic partnership with Razer Group, which refined Clearbot’s prototype into a market-ready product.
  • Selected as a JUMPSTARTER 2022 winner and led its seed round, helping Clearbot secure key contracts with Sino Group and EMSD.
  • Today, Clearbot is making waves beyond Hong Kong, spearheading efforts to clean India’s waterways.
Qupital
Unlocking Growth Through Alibaba’s Global Ecosystem
Qupital is a fintech powerhouse specializing in supply chain financing for e-commerce merchants. With AEF’s backing:
  • Connected to Alibaba’s ecosystem, including Cainiao, Lazada, and WorldFirst, expanding its client base and market reach.
  • As of 2024, Qupital has disbursed over US$2 billion in loans, leveraging its AI-powered credit model to fuel e-commerce growth worldwide.
Sandbox VR
Resilience and Global Expansion Amid Challenges
As the leader in hyper-immersive VR experiences, Sandbox VR transforms entertainment with motion capture, haptics, and cutting-edge technology. AEF has supported its journey from startup to global brand:
  • Invested in Sandbox VR’s seed round in 2017 and provided critical financing through multiple rounds.
  • During the pandemic, AEF delivered lifeline financial support, enabling Sandbox VR to navigate widespread lockdowns that impacted its retail locations.
  • Post-pandemic, Sandbox VR has tripled its franchise operators in 2024 and continues to expand rapidly worldwide.
viAct
From Local AI Incubation to Global Expansion
viAct is Asia’s leading AI-driven workplace safety solution:
  • AEF led its seed round and selected viAct for HKAI Lab, equipping the company with critical AI development resources.
  • Facilitated commercial deals through HKAI Lab’s solution matching program, connecting viAct with industry leaders like Shui On.
  • viAct’s footprint now extends beyond Hong Kong to Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, driving safer, smarter work environments.
#2
SUPER-CONNECTOR ——
HELPING STARTUPS SCALE GLOBALLY WITH STRATEGIC GROWTH
AIFT
(formerly OneDegree)
Unlocking Venture Debt for Scaling Fintech
AIFT is redefining cybersecurity and insurance for the AI, Web3, and digital economy era. With AEF’s support:
  • Secured its first venture debt financing of over US$10 million through HSBC’s New Economy Fund, thanks to AEF’s introduction to HSBC.
  • Attracted Sun Hung Kai & Co., which participated in its US$28 million Series B1 round, propelling AIFT towards becoming Asia’s leading insurtech player.
  • Expanded beyond Hong Kong into the UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and South Korea.
Chazence
Elevating Sustainability with AEF’s Platform
Chazence turns agricultural waste into eco-friendly materials, driving innovation in sustainable product design:
  • Secured US$2.5 million in seed funding from the AEF GBA Fund to establish its R&D center in Hengqin.
  • Featured across AEF’s social media channels, reaching tens of thousands.
  • Nominated for ESG Xchange 2024, where it was recognized as a top three winner, gaining significant industry recognition.
Fano
Expanding AI-Powered Customer Service Across Asia
Fano is transforming enterprise AI with cutting-edge speech and natural language processing solutions:
  • Selected as a JUMPSTARTER 2020 TOP 5 startup and received AEF’s initial investment.
  • Introduced to major financial institutions in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, securing enterprise clients like HSBC, Hang Seng Bank and HKMA.
  • Closed a Series B round led by Openspace Ventures, fueling expansion across the Asia-Pacific region.
Orcauboat
Navigating Global Expansion with Strategic Guidance
Based in Xi’an, China, Orcauboat integrates autonomous technology into waterway maintenance:
  • AEF provided guidance on setting up its international headquarters in Hong Kong, highlighting tax and legal benefits.
  • Connected Orcauboat with investors and corporate partners across Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, accelerating its global expansion.
SleekFlow
Scaling Social Commerce Through Alibaba’s Ecosystem
SleekFlow is an AI-driven omnichannel conversational platform reshaping customer engagement:
  • Leveraged AEF’s network to connect with Alibaba’s Lazada, accelerating its footprint in Southeast Asia.
  • Introduced to investors and top talent, helping strengthen its technology and leadership team.
  • With social commerce booming, SleekFlow is leading the charge in integrating AI-driven engagement solutions across multiple channels.
AIFT
(formerly OneDegree)
Unlocking Venture Debt for Scaling Fintech
AIFT is redefining cybersecurity and insurance for the AI, Web3, and digital economy era. With AEF’s support:
  • Secured its first venture debt financing of over US$10 million through HSBC’s New Economy Fund, thanks to AEF’s introduction to HSBC.
  • Attracted Sun Hung Kai & Co., which participated in its US$28 million Series B1 round, propelling AIFT towards becoming Asia’s leading insurtech player.
  • Expanded beyond Hong Kong into the UAE, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and South Korea.
Chazence
Elevating Sustainability with AEF’s Platform
Chazence turns agricultural waste into eco-friendly materials, driving innovation in sustainable product design:
  • Secured US$2.5 million in seed funding from the AEF GBA Fund to establish its R&D center in Hengqin.
  • Featured across AEF’s social media channels, reaching tens of thousands.
  • Nominated for ESG Xchange 2024, where it was recognized as a top three winner, gaining significant industry recognition.
Fano
Expanding AI-Powered Customer Service Across Asia
Fano is transforming enterprise AI with cutting-edge speech and natural language processing solutions:
  • Selected as a JUMPSTARTER 2020 TOP 5 startup and received AEF’s initial investment.
  • Introduced to major financial institutions in Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, securing enterprise clients like HSBC, Hang Seng Bank and HKMA.
  • Closed a Series B round led by Openspace Ventures, fueling expansion across the Asia-Pacific region.
Orcauboat
Navigating Global Expansion with Strategic Guidance
Based in Xi’an, China, Orcauboat integrates autonomous technology into waterway maintenance:
  • AEF provided guidance on setting up its international headquarters in Hong Kong, highlighting tax and legal benefits.
  • Connected Orcauboat with investors and corporate partners across Hong Kong and Southeast Asia, accelerating its global expansion.
SleekFlow
Scaling Social Commerce Through Alibaba’s Ecosystem
SleekFlow is an AI-driven omnichannel conversational platform reshaping customer engagement:
  • Leveraged AEF’s network to connect with Alibaba’s Lazada, accelerating its footprint in Southeast Asia.
  • Introduced to investors and top talent, helping strengthen its technology and leadership team.
  • With social commerce booming, SleekFlow is leading the charge in integrating AI-driven engagement solutions across multiple channels.
#3
UNICORNS & EXITS —— SCALING STARTUPS INTO INDUSTRY LEADERS
Airwallex
Pioneering the Future of Global Fintech
  • Airwallex is a leading global payments and financial platform empowering modern businesses with seamless banking, payments, and embedded finance solutions.
  • Recognizing its transformative potential, AEF invested in Airwallex early and remains a strategic growth partner.
GoGoX
Hong Kong’s First Logistics Tech Unicorn
  • Operates in 340+ cities across Hong Kong, China, India, Singapore, South Korea and beyond.
  • AEF facilitated the merger of GoGoVan and 58 Suyun, paving the way for Hong Kong’s first unicorn in 2017.
  • Played a key role in securing investments and partnerships, including collaborations with Cainiao.
  • AEF director Savio Kwan served on GoGoX’s board, guiding strategic direction.
Prenetics
Hong Kong’s First Health Tech Unicorn on NASDAQ
  • A trailblazer in consumer and clinical health sciences.
  • AEF orchestrated a landmark partnership with Alibaba Health, opening doors to millions of consumers in China.
  • In 2022, Prenetics became the first Hong Kong unicorn listed on NASDAQ via SPAC merger.
Shopline
From Startup to Asia’s Leading Smart Commerce Platform
  • Invested in 2016 and successfully exited in 2020.
  • Leveraging AEF’s strategic guidance, Shopline expanded into mainland China, the U.S. and Southeast Asia.
  • AEF’s investor network boosted Shopline’s credibility, attracting top-tier venture capital firms across Hong Kong, mainland China and Southeast Asia.
  • Shopline grew from a 50-person team to 300 employees, expanding its presence to Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Shenzhen and Kuala Lumpur.
WeLab
Hong Kong’s Leading Fintech Unicorn
  • Powers 65 million users and over 700 enterprise customers across Hong Kong, mainland China and Indonesia.
  • AEF supported the expansion into Southeast Asia, including the launch of Bank Saqu and the acquisition of Bank Jasa Jakarta in partnership with Astra.
Airwallex
Pioneering the Future of Global Fintech
  • Airwallex is a leading global payments and financial platform empowering modern businesses with seamless banking, payments, and embedded finance solutions.
  • Recognizing its transformative potential, AEF invested in Airwallex early and remains a strategic growth partner.
GoGoX
Hong Kong’s First Logistics Tech Unicorn
  • Operates in 340+ cities across Hong Kong, China, India, Singapore, South Korea and beyond.
  • AEF facilitated the merger of GoGoVan and 58 Suyun, paving the way for Hong Kong’s first unicorn in 2017.
  • Played a key role in securing investments and partnerships, including collaborations with Cainiao.
  • AEF director Savio Kwan served on GoGoX’s board, guiding strategic direction.
Prenetics
Hong Kong’s First Health Tech Unicorn on NASDAQ
  • A trailblazer in consumer and clinical health sciences.
  • AEF orchestrated a landmark partnership with Alibaba Health, opening doors to millions of consumers in China.
  • In 2022, Prenetics became the first Hong Kong unicorn listed on NASDAQ via SPAC merger.
Shopline
From Startup to Asia’s Leading Smart Commerce Platform
  • Invested in 2016 and successfully exited in 2020.
  • Leveraging AEF’s strategic guidance, Shopline expanded into mainland China, the U.S. and Southeast Asia.
  • AEF’s investor network boosted Shopline’s credibility, attracting top-tier venture capital firms across Hong Kong, mainland China and Southeast Asia.
  • Shopline grew from a 50-person team to 300 employees, expanding its presence to Taipei, Ho Chi Minh City, Shenzhen and Kuala Lumpur.
WeLab
Hong Kong’s Leading Fintech Unicorn
  • Powers 65 million users and over 700 enterprise customers across Hong Kong, mainland China and Indonesia.
  • AEF supported the expansion into Southeast Asia, including the launch of Bank Saqu and the acquisition of Bank Jasa Jakarta in partnership with Astra.
Attendees
Startups
Investors, Corporates
& Industry Experts
Speakers
& Judges
Regions &
Countries
JUMPSTARTER is a mission-driven initiative curated by Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund (AEF).

Our mission is unwavering - to bring together founders of innovative and scalable tech startups, entrepreneurs, investors and corporate leaders from around the world, fostering Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem and entrepreneurship.

Our vision is clear - to create a thriving ecosystem where breakthrough innovations emerge, ideas thrive and entrepreneurship flourishes, propelling Hong Kong into a premier global hub for innovation and technology.

JUMPSTARTER commences with the Global Pitch Competition and culminates in the Grand Finale - an annual tribute to innovation, technology and entrepreneurship. It has become the leading startup and tech event in Asia.
All figures are based on the AEF's data over the 12-month period ended March 31, 2025 unless otherwise stated.