Funding

The Health and Medical Research Fund supports health and medical research that can affect health policy, clinical practice and behaviour, and so improve public health. It also funds community health-promotion projects. The usual cap is HK$1.5 million, and a higher amount may be allowed where justified.

The fund also offers seed funding of up to HK$500,000 for large pilot studies and smaller studies that prepare for later full-scale work, including clinical trials and feasibility studies. It mainly covers direct project costs. It does not cover premises, existing academic or service salaries, or subcontracting that the research council has not approved. Indirect costs are generally not supported. Where scientific value is similar, a lower-cost project may be preferred.

Eligibility

In general, people in any health or health-related discipline may apply. Grants may go to local tertiary institutions, hospitals, medical schools, NGOs or other suitable centres and service units. People in fields such as social welfare and education may apply if the project falls within the HMRF.

The principal applicant must work at a Hong Kong organisation during the project and be employed by the managing body when applying

A person who is not employed by an administration or by a government bureau or department cannot be the principal applicant, but may take part as a co-applicant.

Before applying, the managing body should make sure every applicant is eligible

Application deadline

Applications accepted each year