NGOs can obtain a dollar-for-dollar grant of up to HK$2 million from a government fund to launch social service projects, doubling the amount previously allowed.
The Partnership Fund for the Disadvantaged (PFD), has HK$200 million available for welfare groups to implement projects for the needy.
The fund, set up in 2005 after the policy address, started its latest request for applications yesterday.
It allows welfare groups to submit a maximum of 10 proposals, each of which may be allocated a fund of up to HK$2 million. depending on the amount of any matching grant contributed from businesses.
'We encourage the business sector and NGOs to work together to help disadvantaged groups in the community,' deputy director of social welfare (services) Fung Pak-yan said, after announcing fund details.
He said the department welcomed creative projects that could benefit underprivileged groups such as low income families, victims of domestic violence and ex-offenders.