MAR 12 - 13, 2026 HONG KONG
THE AI MASTERY CHALLENGE TO EMPOWER HONG KONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
JUMPSTARTER ZPIRE is an AI innovation challenge for students from all majors. Through Ideation and AI Mastery Workshops, mentorship, and teamwork, participants gain real-world AI skills, sharpen problem-solving, and collaborate across disciplines to turn bold ideas into impactful solutions for integrative wellness.
WHY APPLY?
Elevate yourself for the AI Era
Fast-track
internship opportunity
Free access to
premium AI tools
Get hands-on AI training, expert mentorship, and real-world experience
Join our
elite talent network
WHO CAN APPLY?
All undergraduate students
from any major
Team size: 2-4 members
Mandatory in-person attendance
for both the Grand Finale
and program events
WHAT DOES THIS PROGRAM INCLUDE?
We empower the next generation of innovators by offering hands-on AI training, expert mentorship, and practical experiences to help students turn ideas into real-world solutions.
Shortlisted teams will be invited to:
Ideation workshop
AI mastery workshop
Mentorship
Platform to exchange ideas
CHALLENGE TRACKS
This year's challenge focuses on Wellness.
Identify a real-world problem and develop your innovative solution in these key areas:
Mental Health
Tech
FoodTech & Nutrition Innovation
Active Living & SportTech
Community &
Social Wellness
Open Track
TIMELINE
JUMPSTARTER ZPIRE
OPENS FOR ONLINE APPLICATION TO ALL UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
HOW TO APPLY
Online Submission
APPLY NOW!
Each team must submit one application as a presentation deck (maximum 5 slides), covering key elements such as team structure, solution idea, and implementation plan.
[Click HERE for Submission Guideline]
The selection of student startups is based on your submission material, which will be assessed by our judging panel. Please ensure that you have completely filled out the information according to our requirements.
JUDGING CRITERIA - SCREENING
FAQS
A: ZPIRE stands apart through two core pillars:

1. True Inclusivity
  • Unlike typical tech competitions limited to CS majors, we actively welcome students from all disciplines - business, arts, sciences and beyond
  • Multidisciplinary teams are highly encouraged as we believe diverse perspectives drive innovation

2. End-to-End Development Support
  • More than just a competition, we provide structured learning through:
  • Technical workshops on AI fundamentals
  • Hands-on training with industry tools
  • Mentorship from industry leaders
A: Our goal is to build a future where Gen Z leads with purpose, using AI and innovation to solve real-world challenges. We aim to equip participants with practical skills, an entrepreneurial mindset, and valuable network connections.
A: You must:
  • Submit all required deliverables by stated deadlines
  • Attend mandatory program events (workshops/competitions)
A: The competition is open to all current undergraduate students in Hong Kong, regardless of their major.
A: Absolutely! We highly encourage students from business, design, arts, social sciences, and other non-tech fields to apply. We believe that the best innovations come from interdisciplinary teams with diverse skills and perspectives.
A: Yes, you must apply as a pre-formed team. Teams can have between two to four members, and we recommend forming a team with a mix of complementary skills to maximize your chances of success.
A: No, ZPIRE is completely free for all participants.
A: You can apply through the official application form on our website. The link will be available on 1 September, 2025.
A: All applications must be submitted by 5 October 2025 (11:59 PM HKT). Late submissions will not be accepted.
A: The competition will be a hybrid model. Workshops and info sessions will be a mix of online and in-person, while the main competition rounds will require in-person participation to foster collaboration.
A: Our judging panel will review all applications and select the Top 100 participants based on their passion, creativity, and potential. These Top 100 will be invited to exclusive workshops and the next round of the competition.
A: We provide a wide range of resources to help you succeed, including:
  • Workshops and training sessions on various technologies.
  • Dedicated mentors from different industries to provide guidance and feedback.
  • Access to premium tools and software.
A: All Top 100 participants who complete program requirements will receive a participation certificate.
About Us
JUMPSTARTER is a startup platform for all entrepreneurs and young people to jump start their dreams in Hong Kong. It is also a first-of-its-kind startup event where we unite entrepreneurs, corporates and investors to build, empower and boost Hong Kong's startup ecosystem and entrepreneurship.