Hefei unveils new policy to boost GUi’s development

The Hefei Municipal Government issued a revised policy to accelerate the growth of the Grand Union of Innovation (GUi), reinforcing its core role in the city's push for technological innovation and commercialization.

The new policy calls for more support for key participants, including GUi's global partners, research institutions, startups, and investors.

To encourage talent and entrepreneurship, GUi will continue to provide a cross-section of funding support, rent subsidies, startup grants, and specialized financial programs such as risk compensation for early-stage loans.

The policy puts a major focus on fostering seamless collaboration between industry-leading enterprises, SOEs and tech startups. Companies investing in R&D at GUi can receive funding covering up to 20 percent of their expenditures, with a three-year cap of 15 million yuan ($2.06 million). Additionally, businesses testing new products for applications may qualify for validation subsidies.

To strengthen GUi’s global reach, the policy asks for the establishment of an international technology release center, annual alumni engagement events, and enhanced incentives for converting scientific achievements into market-ready solutions. Researchers commercializing their innovations at GUi can earn one-time rewards of up to 1 million yuan.

With a streamlined policy framework and stronger financial backing, Hefei aims to position GUi as a premier innovation ecosystem, attracting world-class talent, fostering cutting-edge research, and driving high-tech industry growth.