Wuzhen Summit 2026 Is Calling Global Innovators

Bring Your Startup to China’s Global Tech Stage

Connect with Investors and Industry Leaders

Apply for Free and Expand Internationally

About

"Straight to Wuzhen (直通乌镇)" Global Internet Competition is an important activity of the World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, China. It focuses on exploring new technologies, models, and industries related to internet development, and serves as a key platform for cooperation in internet projects, technology, talents, and capital. The event gathers projects from various countries and regions, focusing on areas like artificial intelligence, large-scale integrated circuits, laser technology, big data, blockchain, and virtual reality.

Inaugurated in 2019, "Straight to Wuzhen" Competition has been successfully held for seven consecutive years.

Seven years of growth has transformed the competition into a renowned event in the digital economy sector, gradually elevating its influence on a global level. During this period, a total of 4,455 projects from 35 countries and regions have participated in the competition. Among the projects that made it to the finals, 63 secured new financing after the competition, with a total post-competition financing amount exceeding RMB 50.2 billion.

Join us for the upcoming edition to connect with leading investors, network with international peers, and showcase your innovations on a world stage. Whether you're an overseas Chinese innovator or an international entrepreneur, we've got a spot for you.

The best part? It is completely FREE to participate!

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About Wuzhen

Wuzhen is a historic town in Zhejiang Province, China, known as the "Venice of the East" due to its picturesque canals and traditional architecture. It lies within the triangle formed by Hangzhou, Suzhou and Shanghai.

It is a well-preserved water town with ancient stone bridges, intricate wood carvings, and a rich cultural heritage. Wuzhen hosts the annual World Internet Conference, making it an ideal location for such events due to its blend of historical charm and modern facilities. The town's serene environment and advanced infrastructure provide a unique and inspiring setting for global internet and technology discussions.

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Competition Benefits

Benefits for Finalists and Winners

‍Exclusive Invitation: Attend the 2026 World Internet Conference in Wuzhen, meet top Chinese VC funds, and participate in the "Straight to Wuzhen" awards ceremony.
‍Subsidized Trip: Enjoy a sponsored trip to Wuzhen, just a half-hour train ride from Hangzhou (home of Alibaba and DeepSeek), courtesy of the event organizer.‍‍
‍Investor Networking and Matchmaking: Connect with investors and gain access to investment opportunities.‍‍
‍Industry Engagement: Join key industry cooperation and matchmaking activities‍‍
‍Media Exposure: Benefit from extensive media coverage and promotion through official channels.

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Eligibility & Focus Areas

General Eligibility Requirements

Incorporation Status: Must be a registered company entity. Teams without a registered entity are not eligible.
Submission Limit: Only one project per contestant is allowed.
Focus Sector: Projects must demonstrate significant innovation within the competition's eligible verticals listed below.

Eligible Tech Verticals

Next-Generation Consumer Technology

Smart Mobility

Intelligent Manufacturing

Digital Healthcare

Smart Terminal

OPC (One Person Company)

Selection Criteria

The judging panel consists of investors, industry and technical experts, policymakers, and representatives from relevant industry 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/ Is the event virtual or in-person? Is travel required?

The competition can be joined remotely through the Semi-Final stage. Finalists will be invited to pitch in person in Wuzhen, China, ahead of the Wuzhen Summit in September.

Travel support includes an 8,000 RMB airfare subsidy for teams traveling from outside Asia and a 3,000 RMB airfare subsidy for teams traveling within Asia (subject to change).

Winners will also receive complimentary accommodation, meals, and local transportation during the Summit, limited to one room per startup.

2/ Can I participate without a presence in China?

Yes, startups worldwide can participate, regardless of having a presence in China.

This event is ideal for those interested in commercializing and implementing their solutions in China, as it offers networking opportunities with leading VC funds and investors.

3/ Are there cash prizes?

No, the competition does not offer cash prizes.

Instead, it provides invaluable opportunities for in-person networking and matchmaking with leading Chinese investors, both institutional and angel investors.

4/ Can I participate without a registered company? What stages are eligible?

All startup stages, from ideation to pre-IPO, are eligible, but a registered entity is required.

Teams without a registered entity are not eligible.

5/ What language should I apply in?

Applications are accepted in English and Chinese.

Non-Chinese nationals should apply in English.

6/ What’s the application process?

Submit your application by the deadline listed above. After submission, your entry will undergo a review, and you will be notified via email regarding the outcome at each stage, according to the timeline.

Highlights from Previous Editions

Selected Winners of Past Editions

Organizers & Partners‍

Hosted by:

Zhejiang Provincial Government, World Internet Conference

Co-oranized by:

Zhejiang Provincial Department of Economy and Information Technology
Zhejiang Provincial Department of Science and Technology
Jiaxing Municipal Government
Tongxiang Municipal Government

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