Each year the University earmarks a portion of its recurrent budget for research, which is placed at the disposal of the University's Research Committee. Research funding is also available from other external sources, including different funding schemes under the Research Grants Council (RGC), government departments, and other foundations or organisations. Other common sources of external research funds include sponsor from industrial or commercial organisations, and donations designated for research purposes.

City University of Hong Kong aspires to become a leading global University, excelling in research and professional education. The objectives of the Outstanding Research Award Scheme (the Scheme) are:

• to recognize and reward research excellence at CityUHK;
• to emphasize the University’s commitment to create an environment conducive to high quality research at an internationally competitive level;
• to enhance the University’s performance in the delivery of its research agenda.

CityUHK values the importance of research integrity. All members of the University must observe the highest standards of integrity, professional conduct and ethics.