PolyU SAO Funding Guide

PolyU SAO Funding Guide

A practical guide for PolyU student organisations planning an O-Camp or student activity at Camptopia and preparing their SAO activity and SOF submission.

For PolyU ExCo Teams


PolyU SAO Funding Guide

SAO + SOF Application Support

We help your ExCo prepare venue quotations, activity details, contingency planning, and supporting documents for submission.

Key Funding Points

Activity Fund

  • Eligible activities may receive up to HK$14,000 or 70% of net expense, whichever is lower.
  • Activities open to other PolyU students, the public, or co-organised with recognised organisations may receive an additional HK$6,000 or 30% of net expense.
  • Signature events or activities with special funding needs may receive up to an additional HK$8,000, subject to SAO approval.
  • Maximum Activity Fund support is up to HK$28,000 or 100% of net expense, whichever is lower.

Application Timing

  • Submit the completed Activity Form at least 20 working days before the activity.
  • Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
  • SOF applications made only after the activity will not be considered.

After the Event

  • Submit the Activity Report within 30 days after completion.
  • Prepare participant list, fee collection record if applicable, and receipts.
  • Year-end SOF reimbursement claim deadline: 7 June 2026.

What ExperiencesHK Can Help With

Before Submission

  • Venue quotation for Camptopia
  • Draft activity description and objectives
  • Draft rundown and logistics support notes
  • Contingency plan and safety information
  • Equipment and venue support details

During Planning

  • Explain venue setup and activity flow
  • Support ExCo in identifying add-ons such as campfire, catering, transport, and equipment
  • Help prepare a clear package summary for SAO review

Important

  • ExperiencesHK does not approve funding. Final approval is handled by PolyU SAO.
  • Funding amount may be adjusted by SAO based on actual expenditure and submitted documents.

SAO Application Checklist

1
Confirm activity name, date, time, venue, objectives, and participant estimate.

2
Complete Sections 1–7 of the Activity Form before submission.

3
Attach relevant documents such as rundown, contingency plan, floor plan, logistics plan, equipment list, and quotation.

4
Submit to SAO at least 20 working days before the activity.

5
After the event, submit the Activity Report and reimbursement documents within 30 days.

Common Red Flags

Items to Avoid

  • Activities that do not meet diversity and inclusion requirements
  • Activities without English promotional materials
  • Student residential camp framing
  • Pure welfare or entertainment-only activity descriptions
  • Working meals for ExCo or crew
  • Unlawful transport arrangements such as Uber
  • Items not endorsed in advance by the Hosting Unit

Better Framing

  • Position the activity as an orientation, student integration, leadership, peer support, and community-building programme.
  • Use clear English promotional materials and inclusive activity objectives.
  • Ensure paid external trainers, instructors, performers, or vendors are properly declared where required.

Training & Example Documents

We have prepared a password-protected document page for PolyU ExCo teams, including SAO forms, SOF guidelines, sample planning materials, and Camptopia supporting documents.

Included Documents

  • SAO Activity Form and SOF Guidelines
  • Sample venue quotation and budget support
  • Venue information, floor plan, and equipment references
  • Sample rundown, logistics plan, and contingency plan

Need help preparing your SAO pack?

WhatsApp ExperiencesHK and we can help your ExCo prepare the venue quotation, activity details, and supporting documents for your submission.