Applications extended until 31 August

The International Sci-Tech Innovation Competition for China and Portuguese- and Spanish-Speaking Countries offers startups, scaleups, technology companies, and innovative projects a unique opportunity to access one of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems.

Designed to strengthen cooperation between China and Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries, the programme connects international technology ventures with investors, industrial partners, and innovation hubs across the Hengqin–Macau–Greater Bay Area.

The competition aims to accelerate the international expansion of innovative companies by providing access to funding opportunities, strategic partnerships, and structured support for market entry and growth in China.

Why apply?

Selected participants will benefit from a comprehensive internationalisation platform, including:

• Up to RMB 200 million in total prize funding (approximately €25 million) distributed across 100 winning projects;
• A top prize of up to RMB 15 million (approximately €1.8 million);
• Access to more than 50 private equity funds and strategic investors across the Greater Bay Area;
• Operational and establishment support in China, including legal setup, local structuring, and market entry assistance;
• Integration into industry networks and innovation ecosystems;
• Up to 12 months of continued support for market entry and scaling activities in China.

Who can apply?

The competition is open to:

• Startups and technology companies with international expansion ambitions;
• Businesses registered in Portuguese-speaking or Spanish-speaking countries, or in Macao, China;
• Early-stage and growth-stage ventures with strong innovation or technology components;
• Projects with scalable technologies and cross-border potential;
• Innovation ecosystem stakeholders seeking international partnerships and market opportunities.

Important information

The deadline for applications has been extended until 31 August.

Participants interested in applying to the International Sci-Tech Innovation Competition through the CCILC network should use the following invitation code when submitting their competition application:

INVITATION CODE: CCILC

Please note that this code is not required to register for this session. It must only be entered on the first page of the official competition application form.

About the initiative

The International Sci-Tech Innovation Competition is part of a broader cooperation framework between China and Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries, focusing on innovation, investment, and industrial collaboration.

Through the Hengqin–Macau innovation corridor, the programme provides a strategic gateway into the Chinese market, fostering cross-border partnerships, technology transfer, and global scaling opportunities for high-potential projects.