Bringing Impact Across Borders: Lessons from CIIE for Social Enterprises

Following the first social enterprise delegation to the 9th CIIE, hear insights and lessons learnt from CAPS and the Hong Kong delegates.

Due to limited space, please wait for a confirmation email from the CAPS team after registering on Eventbrite.

Across Asia, social enterprises are addressing pressing social and environmental challenges through business solutions. Yet, many struggle to reach new markets, buyers and partners to scale.

In early November 2026, CAPS led a delegation of 13 social enterprises from 5 Asian economies to the 9th China International Import Expo (CIIE), the world’s first import-themed national-level expo. This marked the first time social enterprises were invited to exhibit at CIIE. By connecting these entrepreneurs with Chinese businesses, buyers and potential partners, the delegation showcased their unique positioning while scaling their social impact.

Building on this experience, this event brings what these insights mean for Hong Kong. CAPS colleagues and the two Hong Kong social enterprises, Meat the Next and ZenxTag Technology, will share the key takeaways, including opportunities, challenges and practical lessons from entering the Chinese market. We hope to spark a dialogue on funding cross-border growth.

Speakers include:

• Prof. Howard Ling, Professor of Practice, Hong Kong Baptist University
• Dr. Ruth A. Shapiro, Co-Founder and Chief Executive, CAPS
• Manisha Mirchandani, Executive Director, CAPS

Joined by representatives from two Hong Kong social enterprises:

• ZenxTag Technology Limited
• Meat the Next