Join Nanjing AI Competition 2026

Where Innovation Meets Scale

Unlock up to 100M RMB in funding

Plus $10K USD upfront and world-class infrastructure

Skyline of the city of Nanjing, in China

About

The Nanjing Global AI Competition is built for ambitious AI startups and scaleups ready to accelerate their growth across Asia.

This initiative connects cutting-edge innovators with top-tier investors, government-backed incentives, and world-class computing infrastructure—creating the ideal environment to scale fast and go global.

From first introduction to full market entry, participants benefit from end-to-end support, ensuring a seamless journey to establish and grow operations in Nanjing.

Why Nanjing?

💰 A Trillion-Yuan Tech Ecosystem

Nanjing is home to one of China’s most advanced software and AI industries, with over ¥1 trillion in annual revenue—providing a powerful and proven foundation for growth.

⚡ Massive AI Computing Power

Access 36,000P computing capacity across 6 intelligent computing centers, enabling next-generation AI development at scale.

🌐 Future-Ready Innovation Zone

Join a 15.21 km² high-tech “City of the Future”, developed under international collaboration frameworks and designed for global innovators.

This program is facilitated by the Nanjing Municipal Government, aiming to foster innovation and attract global talent in the AI sector.

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Immediate Financial Upside

Up to 100M RMB in funding—plus $10K USD upfront bonus

Additional Program Benefits

Financial & Living Support

Up to 3M RMB housing subsidy for top talent
2 months free accommodation, plus ongoing residential rental subsidies
Up to 2 years of income tax support
1-year rent-free office space
Additional research funding for international talent

Talent Living Subsidies

Bachelor’s: 10,000 RMB
Master’s: 30,000 RMB
PhD: 100,000 RMB

Growth & Expansion Support

Investor Access
Connect with leading global VCs investing in AI
Market Entry Support
End-to-end assistance with company registration, financing, and policy applications
Strategic Partnerships
Collaborate with leading enterprises and ecosystem players
Government Incentives
Access subsidies, policy benefits, and fast-track approvals

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Eligibility & Focus Areas

General Eligibility Requirements

AI startups and scaleups across all verticals
Early-stage to growth-stage
Open to teams globally
Minimum 3 core members
At least one member with a Master’s degree or above

Focus Themes

AI Basic Technology

AI Industry Applications

AI Hardware & Chips

Selection Criteria

The judging panel consists of investors, industry experts, technical experts, and representatives from relevant industrial associations.

Innovation: Evaluate the startup's uniqueness and creativity, including any competitive patents.
Market Potential: Assess the market size and viability for the startup's offering.
Team Capability: Consider the skills and experience of the startup's team.
Traction: Examine the startup's progress and interest from users, customers and investors.
Scalability: Can the business grow rapidly and efficiently?
Financial Viability: Determine if the business is financially sustainable and attractive to potential investors.
Application Quality: Evaluate the quality of the application, including the pitch deck and clarity of responses.

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Timeline

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1/ Who is eligible to apply?

AI startups and scaleups from around the world are welcome to apply.

2/ What support does the program offer?

The program provides financial incentives, infrastructure support, and access to investors.

3/ Is there a cost to participate?

No, participation in the program is completely free.

4/ Is the program online or offline?

Most stages of the program are conducted online.

The Asia Finals (Singapore) and Grand Finals (Nanjing) are held offline, and all travel expenses will be covered by the organizer.

5/ Do I need to have a registered company to apply?

No. Both incorporated startups and early-stage teams are welcome to apply.

6/ Do I need to relocate to Nanjing?

Relocation is not required to participate. However, teams interested in expanding into Nanjing will receive additional support and incentives.

7/ What stage should my startup be at?

We welcome startups from early-stage (MVP) to growth-stage. If you have a clear AI solution or vision, you are encouraged to apply.

8/ What industries are eligible?

All industries are welcome. As long as your solution leverages AI, you are eligible to apply.

9/ What is the selection criteria?

Projects are evaluated based on team background, innovation, technical strength, market potential, and scalability.

10/ How many teams will be selected?

Top projects will be shortlisted through multiple stages, with 30 finalists advancing to the Asia Finals in Singapore, and 18 startups progressing to the Grand Finals in Nanjing, China.

11/ What happens after the competition?

Outstanding teams may receive continued support, including funding opportunities, partnerships, and assistance with expansion into Singapore and Nanjing.

Organizers & Partners‍

Hosted by

Nanjing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau

‍Co-organized by

Huatai Securities, China-Singapore International Joint Research Institute

Organized by

Jiangsu Nanjing Eco Hi-tech Island Economic Development Zone Management Committee