2026 Startup@Guangzhou Competition

Compete globally, access over RMB 4 million in startup support, connect with leading investors, and accelerate your expansion in China.

About

The 2026 Startup@Guangzhou Competition is a global technology startup competition for innovative founders, researchers, and entrepreneurial teams worldwide. Participants can showcase breakthrough technologies, connect with investors and industry leaders, compete for substantial cash prizes and non-cash support, and accelerate their expansion into the Chinese market.

Integrated with the HKUST One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition (Guangzhou Region), the competition gives international startups access to one of Asia's most dynamic innovation ecosystems and a direct pathway to commercialize their technologies in China.

Organized by the Guangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Bureau and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), the 2026 edition introduces a dedicated Global Division designed specifically for international technology startups.

Why Guangzhou & the Greater Bay Area?

The Greater Bay Area (GBA) is one of the world's fastest-growing innovation and manufacturing regions, bringing together Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Macau, and other major cities into a single economic powerhouse with over 86 million people.

For startups, it offers:

World-class manufacturing and supply chains to accelerate product development.
Access to China's vast market and a thriving technology ecosystem.
Leading investors, corporate partners, and top research universities.
Government incentives and commercialization support to help innovative companies grow.

Winning teams have the opportunity to establish their business in Guangzhou and use the city as a gateway to the Chinese and Asian markets.

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Benefits

Aditional Benefits

Beyond RMB 4 million+ in prizes, participating startups gain:

Potential nomination to compete for an additional RMB 1 million at the HKUST Grand Finals
Direct access to curated investors and leading VCs
Business matching with corporates and industry partners
Mainstream media exposure across China
Guangzhou market entry and landing support
Sponsored trip to the Finals (transportation, accommodation, and meals)

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Eligibility & Focus Areas

General Eligibility Requirements

Teams should consist of at least two members.
The startup / team must not have previously registered a company in Guangzhou, China.
The team should have a genuine interest in expanding into China through Guangzhou.

Focus Areas

Biotech & Healthcare

Environment, Sustainability & New Energy

Fintech

New Generation Information Technology

High-end Equipment Manufacturing

Microelectronics / Semiconductor

New Material

Robotics & AI

Social Services & Enterprise

Others

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated by a panel of experts from academia, industry, startup incubators, and the investment community. Each project will be assessed based on the following criteria:

Technology & Product (25%) : The uniqueness of the core technology, level of innovation, and overall product viability.
Commercialization Plan (25%) : The feasibility of the commercialization strategy and readiness for market adoption in China, especially in Guangzhou.
Industry & Market Potential (20%) : The project's market opportunity, commercial potential, scalability, and ability to generate both economic and social value.
Project Team (15%) : The expertise, experience, and capabilities of the founding team, as well as the team's ability to execute the project successfully.
Financials (15%) : The project's financial sustainability, business model, and long-term growth potential.

Successful applications will demonstrate strong technological innovation, a compelling commercialization strategy, significant market potential, a capable founding team, and clear potential for sustainable, scalable business growth.

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Timeline

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1/ Who can apply?

Technology startups, university teams, researchers, and innovators from anywhere in the world are welcome to apply.

Teams must have at least two members. Both incorporated startups and early-stage teams without a registered company are eligible. A presence in China is not required.

2/ Is the competition online or in person?

The competition is conducted online through the Semi-Finals. Finalists will be invited to pitch in person in Guangzhou, China, followed by an innovation ecosystem tour.

For finalists, transportation, accommodation, and meals in Guangzhou are covered for one representative per team.

3/ Do I need to be based in China?

No. The competition is open to teams worldwide.

However, it is particularly suitable for startups interested in commercializing or expanding into the Chinese market, offering opportunities to connect with investors, corporate partners, government organizations, and potential customers.

4/ Do I need to establish a company in Guangzhou if I win?

Winning the competition does not require immediate incorporation.

However, to receive and materialize the full range of winner benefits—including applicable cash awards, funding support, and local policy incentives—winning teams are generally expected to establish a company in Guangzhou within six months after the competition, in accordance with the organizer's policies.

5/ Are there cash prizes?

Yes. Winners are eligible for cash prizes, funding opportunities, and extensive non-cash support. Please refer to the Benefits section above for the complete prize package.

6/ What language should I submit my application in?

Applications are accepted in English and Chinese. International applicants are encouraged to submit their applications in English.

7/ What is the application process?

Submit your application before the deadline listed above. All applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted teams will be notified by email at each stage according to the official competition timeline.

Organizers & Partners‍

Hosts:

Guangzhou Municipal Science and Technology Bureau

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST)