The SMEIEGC has been hosted by the China Centre for Promotion of SME Development since 2018. Over 8 editions, the Contest has attracted more than 6,000 innovative projects from over 30 countries and regions worldwide, making it an important platform for linking overseas innovation resources, promoting cross-border industrial and financial cooperation, and facilitating the implementation of high-quality projects in China.
Shortlisted and winning projects receive the Contest endorsement, significantly strengthening their credibility for China market entry.
Priority referrals to leading VC, banks, and funds; priority placement in national SME parks, innovation bases, and incubators with access to talent subsidies, R&D incentives, and landing policies.
Pre-contest needs analysis; a minimum of 3 on-site 1:1 meetings per project during the finals; dedicated post-contest tracking covering industrial parks, leading enterprises, and VC funds.
Promotion via the official website, media platforms, and national expos (China Int'l SME Fair, China Import Expo); inclusion in the Maker in China quality project pool for ongoing government and capital introductions.
AI Club Asia (ACA) is the cooperation partner of the Contest, headquartered in Singapore, with a business network spanning China (including Hong Kong and Macau), Southeast Asia, and Europe — driving AI and deep-tech innovation, international market expansion, and strategic investment.
| Phase | Timeline | Singapore & Europe |
|---|---|---|
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Launch & Submissions
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June – October 2026
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Launch project submissions; publish marketing materials; manage the applications.
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Online Roadshows
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August – October 2026
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Two online roadshows will be held; the best projects will be selected to advance to the Grand Final.
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Grand Final
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November 2026
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Guangzhou on-site: roadshow + expert Q&A, award ceremony and matchmaking; AI Club Asia team accompanies all finalists.
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| 🏆 Awards | The best-performing projects will be selected for the Grand Final in Guangzhou, where certificates will be awarded. |
| 🔗 Matchmaking | Pre-contest needs analysis → ≥3 targeted 1:1 meetings per project during the contest → dedicated post-contest tracking covering parks, enterprises, and VC funds. |
| 💰 Financing | Priority referral to leading VC, banks, and funds; equity financing, credit loans, and IP-pledge financing available. |
| 🏗️ Soft Landing | Priority placement in national SME cooperation zones, innovation bases, and incubators with local preferential policies and talent subsidies. |
| 📢 Promotion | Promotion via official media, website, social platforms, and national expos; inclusion in the Maker in China quality project pool for ongoing recommendations to governments and investors. |