CreateSmart Initiative (CSI) Fund Information & Guidance
Current CreateSmart Initiative eligibility, application timing, project reporting and independent audit-arrangement guidance for Hong Kong cultural and creative projects.
Service snapshot
What to expect before you enquire
Best for
Hong Kong organisations planning a project that benefits a creative sector, rather than only one private business.
- What HKBSCL handles
- Independent application and record guidance, proposal or budget support, and arrangement of an independent CPA audit where commissioned.
- Timing
- As of July 2026 there are four rounds yearly. Complete valid applicants are normally notified about 16 weeks after the relevant round deadline.
- Fee basis
- HKBSCL support is quoted separately. Scheme audit-budget caps are funding rules, not HKBSCL service prices.The initial scope review is free. We aim to issue a written quotation within two business days after receiving the required information.
- What you receive
- A scoped support and evidence plan for application, procurement, reporting and completion; government approval is not guaranteed.
- What you prepare
- Project proposal and budget, substantial Hong Kong connection evidence, quotations, books, milestone reports and completion evidence.
- Who makes the final decision
- The CSI Secretariat assesses, the Vetting Committee recommends and the Controlling Officer decides in absolute discretion; large grants have added approval steps.
More details
- What you receive
- A scoped support and evidence plan for application, procurement, reporting and completion; government approval is not guaranteed.
- What you prepare
- Project proposal and budget, substantial Hong Kong connection evidence, quotations, books, milestone reports and completion evidence.
- Who makes the final decision
- The CSI Secretariat assesses, the Vetting Committee recommends and the Controlling Officer decides in absolute discretion; large grants have added approval steps.
Your next step
Send the applicant type, creative-sector benefit, project dates, budget and deliverables. We will flag eligibility, procurement and reporting issues before quoting.
Understanding CreateSmart Initiative Fund
CreateSmart Initiative supports eligible projects that benefit Hong Kong's cultural and creative industries. We help applicants organise proposals, budgets, records and independent audit arrangements; the official authority alone decides funding.
Funding Support
Government funding provided by way of grant to support cultural and creative industries development projects.
Eligibility Requirements
Locally registered institutions/organizations including academic institutes, industry support organizations, trade associations, professional bodies, research institutes and companies.
Application Process
Under the July 2026 guide, there are four rounds each year, closing on the last calendar day of March, June, September and December. Complete valid applicants are normally notified in writing about 16 weeks after the round deadline.
About CreateSmart Initiative
The Hong Kong SAR Government established the CreateSmart Initiative in June 2009 with an initial HK$300 million allocation. It is administered by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency to support the development of Hong Kong's cultural and creative industries.
- Supports projects in cultural and creative industries not covered by other dedicated government funding schemes
- Strategic focus on nurturing talents, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral collaborations, and fostering creative atmosphere
- Funding provided by way of grant, covering net approved project cost after deducting expected income and other sponsorships
- The project must benefit a creative sector or the wider industries, rather than only one private company
- The CSI Secretariat assesses, the Vetting Committee recommends, and the Controlling Officer makes the funding decision in absolute discretion
CSI Fund Audit Requirements
The final audited account must be prepared by an independent CPA registered under the Professional Accountants Ordinance (Cap. 50) who holds a practising certificate. HKBSCL can arrange and coordinate the independent engagement but does not perform the audit.
Government Support for Audit Fees
The actual expenditure for external audit fees relating to the project can be included in the project budget, subject to the following caps:
Projects costing less than HK$1 million
Maximum HK$5,000
Projects costing HK$1 million to HK$5 million
Maximum HK$10,000
Projects costing more than HK$5 million
Maximum HK$20,000
These caps apply to eligible external audit expenditure. The audit must be conducted independently by a CPA registered under the Professional Accountants Ordinance (Cap. 50) who holds a valid practising certificate.
How We Can Assist
CSI Fund Experience
We have experience with CSI Fund applications and can provide guidance:
- Understanding CSI eligibility criteria and strategic focus areas
- Explaining application procedures and required documentation
- Sharing insights on audit requirements and compliance obligations
Application Guidance
We can guide you through the CSI Fund application process:
- Preparing project proposals and budget plans
- Understanding procurement procedures and hiring requirements
- Arranging for qualified auditors to conduct reasonable assurance engagements
Ongoing Support
Support throughout your CSI Fund project:
- Advice on maintaining proper books and records for audit purposes
- Assistance with progress reports and completion reports
- Coordination between you, auditors, and the CSI Secretariat
Why Consult Us About CSI Fund?
Our team has experience with CSI Fund applications and can help you navigate the requirements:
Comprehensive Understanding
We understand CSI Fund requirements and can explain the audit process and compliance obligations clearly.
Proper Preparation
Guidance helps you prepare correct documentation and maintain proper records from project inception.
Professional Coordination
We can arrange an independent CPA and coordinate requested records and communication with the CSI Secretariat; HKBSCL does not act as auditor or provide audit services directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the CreateSmart Initiative Fund
Official Resources
Check the latest government and regulatory guidance relevant to this service before making filing, compliance, or planning decisions.
CreateSmart Initiative - Official Site
Access official information on the CreateSmart Initiative and its current funding schemes for the creative industries.
Visit official site
Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency - Funding and Support
Review official policy and programme information published by the government authority overseeing CSI funding support.
Visit official site
Related services to consider
These links help connect the current topic with nearby company, tax, banking, and compliance support. They are not a substitute for professional advice on your actual circumstances.
Need Guidance on CSI Fund?
Contact us to review CSI requirements, application records and independent audit-arrangement needs. Advice and coordination do not guarantee funding approval.
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