Chongqing—The Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau has released the guidelines for a trial joint action plan to boost enterprise-led scientific research. The plan aims to enhance innovation by integrating more research resources into businesses.

A representative from the Bureau emphasized that strengthening enterprises' leadership roles in research and innovation is the key to driving the integration of technological innovation with industrial development.

Changan Global R&D Center in Chongqing. (Photo/Chen Zhan)

According to the Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau, the plan aligns with the "416" technological innovation layout and the "33618" manufacturing clusters' construction. It focuses on boosting the R&D capabilities of high-tech firms, national technology-based SMEs, and other key players.

Chongqing is developing four innovation hubs in digital tech, life health, new materials, and green sectors, with a focus on 16 strategic fields like AI and big data under its "416" plan. It is also advancing the "33618" manufacturing cluster system, aiming for three trillion-yuan, three 500-billion-yuan, and six 100-billion-yuan clusters, plus 18 emerging industry clusters.

The initiative also encourages collaboration between enterprises and academic institutions, research centers, and other organizations to carry out joint research.

Projects recommended by district (county) science and technology departments will undergo an evaluation by the Chongqing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau. Once approved, these projects will be included in the municipal science and technology plan as innovation and application development projects.

In addition to offering financial support, Chongqing will provide a maximum of 200,000 yuan (about 28,000 USD) in funding for each approved project. 

Furthermore, the plan simplifies the business process by offering comprehensive online management services. Through the digital platform, companies can post their technical needs and connect with scientific and technological talent and resources.