HKUST Business School and the Hinrich Foundation have launched the HKUST MBA-Hinrich Foundation Global Trade Leader Scholarships, a new scholarship designed to support outstanding MBA candidates committed to advancing sustainable and mutually beneficial global trade.
The Award supports students enrolled in the HKUST Full-Time MBA program and offers both financial assistance and opportunities to expand professional networks and industry knowledge. Three students will be selected for each intake, with each recipient receiving HK$350,000. During their studies, students will participate in meetings with Hong Kong‑based chambers of commerce and industry associations, gaining direct exposure to real‑world trade environments.
“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,” said Prof. Frederik Anseel, Dean of HKUST Business School.
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, as well as those working in emerging areas such as digital trade infrastructure and blockchain, are encouraged to apply.
“Sustainable trade practices are not intuitive. They must be taught,”
said Alex Boome, Program Director of the Hinrich Foundation, underscoring the importance of structured education in preparing future trade leaders.
Highlighting Asia’s critical role, Prof. 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.”
“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.” added Prof. Paul Kitney, Professor of Business Practice, HKUST Business School.
