Delegation Trip to China

This delegation trip was planned and implemented – for the first time – in close cooperation with Berlin Partner and Start Alliance. Within the framework of enpact’s cooperation with SUAB, this was the largest delegation ever organized, which nicely reflects the growing interest, success and reputation of the format. 

Out of 49 applications for this delegation trip, 24 participants were chosen: Two representatives from China Competence Centre of the Technical University, Berlin (TU), one founder from Poland and 21 German entrepreneurs. The trip to Shanghai and Shenzen took place from 25 to 29 November 2019 and both, Berlin-based as well as international startup players were invited to take part in this one-week startup ecosystem tour.

A comprehensive and diverse program was developed for both cities, where participants were visiting companies, and took part in panel discussions, pitch events, receptions and workshops. This allowed them to experience and participate in the respective startup ecosystems in very holistic ways. The participants were able to make many valuable business contacts and the delegation trip gave them an overview of the most important areas and sectors of ecosystems and locational advantages in Shanghai and Shenzhen. They were also given a basic introduction to opportunities and risks of entering the Chinese market.

The agenda included meetings with and visits of Invest Shanghai, Alibaba HQ, HSTP Tech Park, StartupFlaneur, TusStar Accelerator, Techcode, Chinaccelerator, InnoEU, NOALabs, HiveBox, Intebridge, Startup Grind, Tencent WeStart Labs, etc. 

Among the highlights were:

• An evening reception on the first day of the delegation. Agents of various German representations, i.e. embassies, Chamber of Commerce Abroad as well as long-time Chinese partners of Berlin Partner from Shanghai attended and in an intimately private atmosphere where views on the general conditions and business environment could be exchanged. 
• A public event at Techcode Shanghai with leading German-Chinese startups, where delegates could pitch in front of 50 participants.
• For the whole duration of the trip, participants repeatedly received feedback on the marketability of their products in China, not only at public events like Techcode or Startup Grind, but also in private pitch sessions with Chinaccelerator & Intebridge
• Startup Grind in Shenzhen counted 100 visitors. After the panel discussion on the market entry in Europe via Berlin, all delegates showcased their companies.