'Startup in Shanghai' competition invites international innovators

The 2025 edition of "Startup in Shanghai" International Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition is now open for global applications, welcoming outstanding projects from innovation-driven teams and enterprises worldwide, the Shanghai Municipal Science and Technology Commission said recently.

This year's application officially launched in late May, and will run through the end of July. International applicants should register through the WeStart TOP100 website.

Applicants must have a core team of at least three members and possess original technologies with clear commercial potential. Projects should fall within key sectors, such as next-generation information technology, biomedicine, high-end equipment manufacturing, new energy, new materials, environmental resources, and new energy vehicles, according to the commission.

The competition will include preliminary, semifinal, and final rounds, with participants pitching their ideas to panels of industry experts and investors. In addition to first, second, and third prizes, a special grand prize will be conferred to top performers. Winners will receive funding, incubation support, investment matchmaking, and opportunities to engage in high-profile innovation events in China.

Upon registering a company in Shanghai, award recipients may access exclusive services offered by designated partner banks. Eligible participants may also be recommended for exposure and engagement opportunities at high-profile activities, including the Pujiang Innovation Forum, Shanghai Science and Technology Festival, China International Import Expo, and China International Industry Fair, according to the commission.

Since its inception in 2012, the competition has attracted over 70,000 startup participants worldwide, offering a premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies and entrepreneurial talent.

Wu Jinwen contributed to this story.