Shenzhen Innovation Competition Opens for Global Entrepreneurs

The 8th China (Shenzhen) Innovation & Entrepreneurship International Competition, known as the “Entrepreneurship Olympics,” is now accepting registrations. The Shenzhen Innovation Competition invites innovation and entrepreneurship projects worldwide, with no nationality restrictions. Participants will compete for significant prizes and the chance to establish themselves in Shenzhen, a leading innovation hub.

Substantial Prizes and Venture Capital

Organized by the local human resources and social security bureau, the Shenzhen Innovation Competition offers a prize pool of 9.42 million yuan (approximately $1.31 million). The top winner will receive up to 1.75 million yuan in prize money and start-up subsidies. Additionally, a venture capital pool of 25 billion yuan has been established by over 50 investment institutions. This aims to support outstanding projects in Shenzhen.

Global Participation and Regional Contests

Applications must be submitted by September 10. Regional contests will follow from mid-September to late October across 12 countries. These contests will take place in cities like Tokyo, Melbourne, London, Paris, Munich, Milan, Barcelona, Eindhoven, Stockholm, Zurich, Silicon Valley, Boston, and Toronto.

Finals in Shenzhen

Winners from the regional contests will advance to the finals in Shenzhen between November and December. Competitors will showcase projects in seven thematic areas: next-generation electronics, high-end equipment manufacturing, green and low-carbon technologies, new materials, biopharmaceuticals and health, digital and fashion industries, and the marine economy.

A Platform for Global Innovation

The Shenzhen Innovation Competition aims to integrate global innovation and entrepreneurial resources. It also seeks to connect overseas projects with China’s high-tech industrial landscape. This will facilitate access to the Chinese market for mutual growth.

Since its launch in 2016, the competition has attracted nearly 17,000 participants from 89 countries. Of the 551 projects that reached the finals in previous years, 68 have registered companies in Shenzhen. Additionally, eight of these companies have been recognized as State-level high-tech enterprises.

For those interested, further details and the registration process are available on the official website: http://www.itcsz.cn/