news

‘Future Cities’ initiative offers businesses the chance to build overseas relations in China

Posted: 19 July 2018 | | No comments yet

A new project from Innovate UK presents the opportunity for business relations to be made, coaching sessions experienced and prospective markets learnt.

cities

Applications are open for UK businesses to join Innovate UK’s Future Cities delegation to China – a valuable opportunity to build new smart city business collaborations overseas.

Innovative UK businesses working in the smart cities sector have the chance to meet potential customers, partners and investors in China’s Greater Bay Area from 26-30 November 2018.

China’s Greater Bay Area offers a wealth of opportunity for UK businesses working in smart cities infrastructure and design. This cluster of 11 cities across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau province is Asia’s most dynamic region and is currently developing into a global hub for technology and innovation with aspirations to become an economic centre that will rival Tokyo, San Francisco and New York.

When attending, you’ll develop a tailored pitch and travel to China to meet prospective partners, investors and customers, learn about market opportunities and experience business culture.

There will also be the chance to visit pioneering future cities projects in China’s Greater Bay Area, centred around Shenzhen: a centre of technology for internet start-ups, including Tencent and Huawei. There may be visits to other cities such as Zhuhai, Zhongshan, Guangzhou, Dongguan, Wuhan and Hefei, depending on the structure of the trip.

The missions of Future Cities are designed to offer UK urban innovators a unique opportunity to enter overseas markets. Chosen participants will receive expert advice and support before travelling to ensure that they are prepared to explore new markets, including 1-2-1 coaching.

The mission week will include pitching to local stakeholders, networking and the chance to meet other Chinese and UK-registered companies.

The mission is open to established UK-registered micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and urban innovators looking for Chinese customers, partners or investment.

Businesses should be focusing on smart mobility, affordable healthcare, sustainable urban environments, urban planning and technology infrastructure.

Applications are open and the deadline to apply is 17 August 2018. Up to 15 businesses will be able take part and successful applicants will be notified by 28 August 2018.

The mission partners to Innovate UK are DIT, the China-British Business Council, the Future Cities Catapult and 100%Open.