Developing Future Leaders: The HKUST MBA-Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leader Scholarships

To cultivate the next generation of international business pioneers, the HKUST MBA program has partnered with the Hinrich Foundation, an Asia-based philanthropic organization dedicated to advancing mutually beneficial and sustainable global trade. Together, we have launched the HKUST MBA-Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leader Scholarships. This three-year strategic partnership represents a HK$3.15 million joint commitment to support outstanding full-time MBA candidates who are passionate about shaping the future of global cross-border business.

About the scholarship Academic Year 2026-2027

ProgramHKUST Full-time MBA
WhatThree scholarships of HK$350,000 each
WhereHong Kong
WhenClasses begin in August 2026
Eligibility

 

Open to applicants from all countries enrolled in or applying to the full-time program. Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate a strong interest in global trade with relevant work experience.

 

Successful candidates must be admitted to the full-time HKUST MBA program, be awarded the scholarship by the Hinrich Foundation Scholarship Committee, and commit to joining four industry association or chambers of commerce meetings every school year in Hong Kong.

Application DeadlineJun

No separate application is required. Prospective scholars are automatically considered during the admissions process. Those deemed eligible will be invited for a separate interview with the Hinrich Foundation Scholarship Committee. Scholarship recipients will get an opportunity to engage with the Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association (HFAA) for mentorship, networking, and possible career opportunities.

Read the Hinrich Foundation - HKUST scholarship news release here.

Apply Now

Exceptional Support for Top Talent

We are committed to ensuring that top-tier professionals have the resources they need to excel. Each year, three exceptional candidates selected from our applicant pool will receive an award of HK$350,000. This substantial funding covers more than 55% of your tuition, providing the financial freedom to fully immerse yourself in the MBA experience.

Unrivaled Industry Access

The true value of this award extends far beyond financial assistance. From day one, you will engage directly with industry leaders by participating in exclusive meetings with Hong Kong-based chambers of commerce and industry associations. This active, on-the-ground involvement enhances your practical learning and opens doors to long-term, high-value business relationships within the global trade sector.

A Lifelong Global Network

Upon graduation, your journey continues as a distinguished member of the Hinrich Foundation Alumni Association. This grants you exclusive, lifelong access to targeted professional development support and a worldwide network of fellow global trade leaders. You will remain connected to a powerful community operating across global trade value chains, providing an invaluable asset wherever your career takes you.

Who We Are Looking For

We welcome applications from professionals worldwide who possess relevant work experience and a resolute commitment to a career in global trade. Ideal candidates bring backgrounds in cross-border business, supply chain management, trade policy, international banking, or trade finance. We also strongly encourage forward-thinking professionals working in emerging fields like digital trade infrastructure and blockchain to bring their unique perspectives to our classroom.

Take the Next Step

Scholars are carefully chosen through a panel interview conducted by senior representatives from both the HKUST Business School and the Hinrich Foundation. To be considered for this prestigious award, simply submit your application directly through our standard HKUST Full-time MBA admissions process.

Start Your MBA Application

Learning the craft of business and leadership
Business Minds Behind a Practical MBA
Bringing experience into the classroom

At HKUST, students build on research and evidence-based management—they also learn from professionals who’ve led at the highest levels. Our faculty includes seasoned experts from global businesses and innovative start-ups who bring decades of hands-on experience into the classroom. They share practical frameworks, real-world insights, and strategic thinking that build on theory. It’s a rare opportunity to gain direct access to the minds behind major business decisions.

Learn from Leaders

HKUST MBA students regularly hear from senior executives who’ve faced real challenges and driven meaningful change. These guest speakers come from a range of industries, offering firsthand stories of leadership, innovation, and decision-making under pressure. Their experiences bring business concepts to life and offer valuable lessons that students carry into their own careers.

Powerhouse for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

For many HKUST MBA students, launching a startup isn’t just a dream—it’s a goal. Entrepreneurship is built into the structure and spirit of the program, supported by a university culture that values bold thinking and real-world impact. HKUST offers a robust ecosystem for aspiring founders, including the Entrepreneurship Center, HKUST Entrepreneurship Fund, and the Blue Bay Incubator in Shenzhen. These platforms provide mentorship, funding, and access to one of Asia’s most vibrant startup communities.

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Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2026
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