The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China recently released a list of the top 20 overseas returnee startups with the greatest growth potential, local media reported on Jan 3.

Two of the 20 selected companies are based in Zhongguancun - EdiGene (Beijing) Inc., from the Haidian Overseas Students Pioneer Park, and Heibei Ecotrons New Energy Technology Co Ltd, from Zhongguancun's branch in Shijiazhuang, capital of Hebei province.

The 20 selected enterprises will obtain one-on-one business mentoring from members of the Returned Chinese Students Entrepreneurship Experts Steering Committee, and will be promoted by the China Service Alliance for Overseas Returnees. They will also receive funding support from venture capital firms and angel funds.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China releases a list of the 20 overseas returnee startups with the greatest growth potential. [Photo/zhsp.gov.cn]

EdiGene Inc is a high-tech biology company which pioneers genome modification technologies in China. Its accomplishments include designing a world-class genome modification platform for cancer cells, stem cells, and immune cells, as well as a high-throughput genetic screening platform.

The list was issued at the 2017 China Overseas Talents Exchange Conference in Guangzhou on Dec 21.

The selection has been held annually since 2012, aiming to provide further support and services for returning overseas students to start their own businesses and to increase the growth potential of their own businesses.

The 20 overseas returnee startups with the greatest growth potential are named at the 2017 China Overseas Talents Exchange Conference in Guangzhou on Dec 21. [Photo/people.com.cn]