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 opportunity
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.
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 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.
- 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.
Beyond RMB 4 million+ in prizes.
Participating startups gain capital access, partner access, visibility, and structured support for China market expansion.
Additional prize opportunity
Potential nomination to compete for an additional RMB 1 million at the HKUST Grand Finals.
Investor access
Direct access to curated investors and leading venture capital firms.
Business matching
Business matching with corporates and industry partners.
Media exposure
Mainstream media exposure across China for selected teams.
Market entry
Guangzhou market entry and landing support.
Sponsored trip
Transportation, accommodation, and meals covered for finalists.
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.
Healthcare, medical devices, diagnostics, biotechnology, digital health, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences.
Climate tech, clean energy, carbon reduction, recycling, ESG, environmental solutions, and sustainability.
Financial services, payments, banking, insurance, wealth management, blockchain, and financial technology.
Software, cloud computing, cybersecurity, IoT, big data, enterprise IT, and digital technologies.
Advanced manufacturing, industrial automation, robotics, aerospace, precision engineering, and smart equipment.
Semiconductor design, chip manufacturing, electronic components, embedded systems, and microelectronics.
Advanced materials, nanotechnology, composites, specialty chemicals, functional materials, and material innovation.
Artificial intelligence, machine learning, autonomous systems, robotics, computer vision, and intelligent automation.
Education, social impact, public services, nonprofit innovation, community solutions, and social enterprises.
Startups that do not fit into any of the above categories.
How applications will be evaluated.
Applications will be evaluated by a panel of experts from academia, industry, startup incubators, and the investment community.
The uniqueness of the core technology, level of innovation, and overall product viability.
The feasibility of the commercialization strategy and readiness for market adoption in China, especially in Guangzhou.
The project's market opportunity, commercial potential, scalability, and ability to generate both economic and social value.
The expertise, experience, and capabilities of the founding team, as well as the team's ability to execute successfully.
The project's financial sustainability, business model, and long-term growth potential.
From application to Guangzhou finals.
Submit your application before the deadline listed on the opportunity profile.
Applications are reviewed and shortlisted teams are notified.
The Semi-Finals are conducted online.
Finalists pitch in Guangzhou and join the innovation ecosystem tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
3/ Do I need to be based in China?
No. The competition is open to teams worldwide and is especially suitable for startups interested in commercializing or expanding into the Chinese market.
4/ Are there cash prizes?
Yes. Winners are eligible for cash prizes, funding opportunities, and extensive non-cash support.
5/ What language should I submit my application in?
Applications are accepted in English and Chinese. International applicants are encouraged to submit in English.
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