Some 400 disabled people are expected to benefit under a $50 million employment scheme that encourages them to launch small businesses.
The initiative, announced by Chief Executive Tung Chee-hwa in his Policy Address last year, was launched by the Social Welfare Department, which is inviting charities or non-profit-making groups to apply for a maximum of $2 million to start a new venture.
To qualify, at least 60 per cent of a company's employees have to be disabled.
Po Leung Kuk, a major welfare organisation, praised the programme for its creative approach.
Lam Muk-kwan, Po Leung Kuk's assistant superintendent for rehabilitation services, said: 'Although the economy is in a slump, Hong Kong is a diverse place where business opportunities will spring up somehow.'
Mr Lam said people with disabilities usually worked at sweet shops, for cleaning services or car-cleaning service firms, restaurants and licensed street stalls.