Chongqing - On January 9, the Chongqing Seed Investment Fund committed 20.2 million yuan (about 2.83 million USD) to 20 projects and signed cooperation agreements with 10 universities, research institutes, and incubation platforms.
The 20 projects focus on transforming new technologies across various fields. Thirteen are in intelligent technology and equipment, accounting for 65% of the total; five are in life and health, making up 25%; and two are in new materials, representing 10%.
Most of the signed projects have independent intellectual property rights, averaging 13.35 assets per project. The supported companies are relatively new, with an average age of under 18 months and average registered capital of 7.57 million yuan. Additionally, two innovation team projects plan to establish companies within six months of signing.
Representatives exchanged ideas on the Chongqing Seed Investment Fund projects. (Photo/Chen Zhan)
Seed funding is equity-based, meaning investors provide capital to businesses at their early stages in exchange for ownership stakes, which represent shares in the business.
Seed funding is vital for a city's growth as it encourages innovation and supports new businesses. Helping entrepreneurs bring ideas to life can drive job creation, economic diversification, and the development of emerging industries.
Azure Era Energy Saving Technology, a start-up based in Chongqing, has developed innovative radiation-cooling optical coating technology. This technology is now used in chemical energy storage, automotive travel, green warehouses, and cold chain logistics sectors. The company secured 1.3 million yuan in seed funding due to its advanced technology and growth potential.
The company's CEO shared that the funding will be used to develop new energy-saving materials for passive cooling, which can reduce temperatures by up to 45 degrees without using energy. The company plans to boost R&D investment and aim to triple its performance capacity soon.
As part of government initiatives, the Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau has consistently prioritized fostering innovative entities. It has implemented a dual-focused strategy aimed at increasing the number of high-tech and technology-based enterprises, intending to enhance the development potential of technology companies and drive innovation within the sector.
The Chongqing Seed Investment Fund Management Measures were officially released in October 2024. The fund, which has an initial capital of 200 million yuan, primarily operates on government guidance and professional management principles.
The Chongqing Seed Investment Fund focuses on emerging sectors and supports the development of Chongqing's "416" technological innovation framework and "33618" modern manufacturing cluster system. It adheres to a strategy of early-stage investments, prioritizing small companies and those involved in advanced technologies.
The fund collaborates with key regions, platforms, and teams to identify promising projects. It primarily supports start-up technology companies and scientific innovation teams through direct equity investment. The fund also aids in validating scientific achievements and pilot projects. The maximum investment per project can reach 2 million yuan.