Gobi Ventures and HKU Launch Gobi-HKU Fund I to Invest in Technology Startups

SighingCashier · 2026-03-24T07:50:32+00:00

With support from HK Invest, Gobi Ventures and the University of Hong Kong have launched the Gobi-HKU Fund I, with a fund size of 240 million yuan. The fund will focus on investing in high-potential technology startups derived from HKU's scientific research achievements, and has already invested in AilsynBio and Manifold Tech. This collaboration aims to convert scientific research into commercial applications and drive Hong Kong's innovation ecosystem.

SighingCashier

2026-03-24 07:50:32

Abstract generation in progress

With the support of Hong Kong Investment Management Limited (HK Investment), Gobi Partners and The University of Hong Kong announced the launch of Gobi-HKU Fund I. The total fund size is HKD 240 million, and Gobi Partners has also completed an initial fundraising of HKD 120 million.

This is a co-branded fund operated as a parent fund by HKU to promote innovation and entrepreneurship through the Entrepreneurial Engine Fund (EEF). It will focus on investing in high-potential tech startups derived from HKU research成果, and has already invested in two tech companies: AilsynBio (AI-driven drug design and development) and Manifold Tech (robotic spatial intelligence technology).

CEO of HK Investment, Mr. Chen Ka-chai, stated that the establishment of Gobi-HKU Fund I, along with its efficient and solid investment pace, demonstrates HK Investment’s firm commitment to fostering synergy among the core sectors of “investment, industry, academia, research, and government.” HK Investment will continue to collaborate with various partners to create cross-sector, interdisciplinary, and cyclical patient capital investment models and mechanisms, injecting vital and sustained momentum into Hong Kong’s high-quality economic development ecosystem.

Gobi Partners Managing Partner, Mr. Tang Qibo, said that many disruptive technological breakthroughs worldwide originate from HKU’s research system. He is pleased to collaborate with HKU to bridge the gap between research and commercialization, pushing innovations in AI, robotics, biotech, and other key fields onto the global stage.

Professor Ma Guiyi, Acting Vice President (Research) of HKU, stated that Gobi-HKU Fund I reflects HKU’s commitment to translating world-class research成果 into innovation. This partnership with Gobi Partners will further promote HKU’s efforts to convert breakthrough research成果 into practical applications. As the fund begins new investments and continues to provide support, HKU is accelerating the development of high-potential university-derived startups.

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