The School of Business and Management of The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST Business School) and the Hinrich Foundation announced the launch of a new scholarship to foster leaders in global trade, marking the beginning of a three-year strategic partnership in talent development. With a joint scholarship commitment of HK$3.15 million from both organizations, the HKUST MBA-Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leader Scholarships provides support to outstanding candidates in the HKUST full-time MBA program who are dedicated to advancing mutually beneficial and sustainable global trade.
The Award offers recipients not only financial assistance but also valuable opportunities to expand their professional networks and industry knowledge. Each year, three scholars will be selected from among the program's applicants to receive HK$350,000 each. During their studies, they will participate in meetings with Hong Kong-based chambers of commerce and industry associations. Upon graduation, they will join the Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association, further expanding their networks across global trade value chains.
The scholarship is open to applicants worldwide with relevant work experience and a strong commitment to pursuing careers in global trade. Candidates with backgrounds in cross-border business, supply chain management, trade policy, international banking, and trade finance are encouraged to apply, as well as those working in emerging fields such as digital trade infrastructure and blockchain. The scholars are selected through a panel interview conducted by senior representatives from both organizations. Scholarship details are available on the Hinrich Foundation's website.
Frederik Anseel, Dean of HKUST Business School, commented: "This partnership with the Hinrich Foundation reflects our shared belief that the future of global business will be shaped by leaders capable of navigating the complexities of international trade. HKUST MBA's strong Asia business focus, forward-looking curriculum, and international community make it an ideal platform for developing trade leaders who can drive sustainable growth across the region."
The HKUST MBA program draws students from over 20 nationalities, with many bringing direct experience in trade-exposed industries across the Asia-Pacific region. The scholarship is a natural fit with HKUST and designed to support future leaders in international trade.
"Sustainable trade practices are not intuitive. They must be taught," said Alex Boome, Program Director of the Hinrich Foundation. "HKUST MBA is a leading program featured in the Hinrich Foundation Guide to Master's in International Business and Trade. Importantly, it combines academic rigor with practical insights, making it an ideal platform for those aiming to lead in cross-border trade and innovation."
Stephen Shih, Associate Dean (MBA Programs), HKUST Business School, added: "The best MBA classrooms are shaped by the people in them. This partnership will ensure that top MBA applicants don't just apply to schools in the West, but also apply to programs in Asia. Understanding Asia and having personal networks in this region will be an important asset to future international trade leaders, regardless of where their global careers take them."
The program's curriculum combines core business disciplines with electives covering fields such as global strategy for Chinese firms, AI and innovation, and the economies of Asia - equipping graduates to operate at the intersection of trade, technology, and policy.
Paul Kitney, Professor of Business Practice, Department of Economics, HKUST Business School, noted: "With over three decades in Asia-Pacific finance and markets, I have seen first-hand how trade flows shape economies and create opportunity. The professionals we attract through this scholarship will bring real-world perspectives into the classroom and, in turn, carry the analytical rigour of our program back into the global trade ecosystem."
Prospective scholars should apply directly to the HKUST MBA admissions team. Learn more about the program and the admission process at the program's website. (https://mba.hkust.edu.hk/full-time)
