In line with its mission to advance learning and knowledge through teaching and research, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) recognized the need to also nurture professional talents with a global outlook, who could participate in the economic development of China. This vision was shared by the late Dr Henry Fok Ying Tung and his long-time friend Mr. Ho Ming Sze. This meeting of visions led to the establishment of the HKUST Fok Ying Tung Graduate School (the Graduate School) in 2006, made possible with financial support from the Fok Ying Tung Foundation and the Fok Ying Tung Ming Yuan Development Company Ltd..

Drawing on HKUST's strengths, the Graduate School will develop into a prominent research and education base for the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region, pushing economic growth and technological advancement in the region, expanding outreach to industry, and fostering knowledge exchange between Hong Kong and the Mainland. These will firstly be implemented by the Fok Ying Tung Research Institute in Nansha, which is under the Fok Ying Tung Graduate School.

This fitted well with the Fok Ying Tung Foundation mission of supporting academic exchanges, social research, the development of Nansha, community service, education, science and technology, and cultural activities. Since its establishment in 1984, the Foundation has worked relentlessly to develop Nansha into a dynamic, modern, coastal city, complete with its own commercial and service sectors to meet the needs of new and re-invigorated traditional businesses in the region. They were impressed by HKUST's strong commitment in research excellence, nurturing talents, and to making contributions locally, nationally and globally.