Pair of events highlights talent and innovation efforts in Beijing

Beijing is reinforcing its commitment to global innovation and talent attraction this week with a pair of events highlighting technology and talent development.

The 2025 High-Caliber Talent Hub Forum commenced on Friday at the Beijing Capital International Exhibition and Convention Center in Shunyi district. The forum is a key platform for discussing the integrated development of education, technology, and talent.

One highlight was the release of new supportive measures for young talent, known as the "Ten Measures for Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship". These policies are designed to provide housing, workspaces, and comprehensive support services for young entrepreneurs in the capital.

Xue Qikun, a scientist and president of the Southern University of Science and Technology, emphasized the dynamic relationship between education, technology, and talent.

"First-class research universities are institutions fully equipped with the triad of functions in education, technology, and talent," he said, adding that such universities serve as strategic anchors in advancing the integrated reform of the institutional mechanisms for education, technology, and talent.

The other event, the HICOOL 2025 Global Entrepreneur Summit, opened on Thursday at the same venue. This three-day summit brings together scientists, investors, and entrepreneurs from around the world to discuss innovation and entrepreneurship.

During its opening ceremony, awards were presented to winners of the HICOOL 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Competition.

A series of key initiatives were also launched, including new platforms to support international talent and the establishment of a global advanced laser alliance.

Since its inception, the HICOOL platform has attracted 45,000 entrepreneurs and 34,000 projects from 167 countries and regions, according to related authorities.

It has nurtured one listed company, 16 unicorns, and 197 "specialized, refined, distinctive, and innovative" firms, with post-competition financing exceeding 50 billion yuan ($7 billion).

These concurrent events underscore Beijing's focus on creating a vibrant ecosystem where global innovators and top talent can connect and succeed, authorities said.