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schemes was submitted to the Chief Executive in December. The Chief Executive has accepted the committee's recommendations in full. The Administration aims to implement all the recommendations by end-March 2003.
The Support and Consultation Centre for SMEs (SUCCESS) of the Trade and Industry Department provides SMEs with a comprehensive range of free information and advisory services under one roof. By collaborating with over 80 major trade and industry associations, support organisations, professional bodies, private firms and government departments, SUCCESS provides a business advisory service for SMEs on issues relating to starting, running and expanding businesses. Its facilities include a reference library, computer workstations, electronic databases, audio-visual references, and areas for hosting mini-seminars and workshops. SUCCESS also runs the Virtual SME Information Centre and the Business Licence Information Service on the Internet.
Following the positive outcome of a review on a pilot mentorship programme for SMEs in 2001, the Trade and Industry Department, in collaboration with 25 trade and industry associations, launched a full mentorship programme for SMEs in May 2002. The programme provides an opportunity for SME operators to learn from, and be guided by, accomplished entrepreneurs, senior executives and professionals through one-on-one free counselling. Over 200 SME entrepreneurs participated in the 2002-03 programme.
Promotion of Innovation and Technology
Innovation and Technology Commission
To promote the development of innovation and technology, the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) under the Information Technology and Broadcasting Branch is tasked with the mission of spearheading Hong Kong's drive to become a world-class, knowledge-based economy. The commission formulates and implements policies and measures to promote innovation and technology; supports applied research, technology transfer and application; promotes technological entrepreneurship; facilitates the provision of technology infrastructure and development of human resources; and promotes internationally accepted standards and conformity assessment services to underpin technological development and international trade. The commission works closely with its partners in the Government, industry, business, tertiary education institutions and industrial support organisations.
To make Hong Kong a regional centre for innovation and technology, the Government has been implementing various initiatives to drive forward innovation and technology. It offers a range of infrastructure and funding support for applied research and development activities.
Council of Advisors on Innovation and Technology
The Council of Advisors on Innovation and Technology (CAIT) is a high-level standing advisory body reporting directly to the Chief Executive. Its role is to advise and make recommendations to the Chief Executive on matters relating to innovation and technology so as to optimise their contributions to Hong Kong's economic development.