Chengdu continues to attract youthful talents

City government implementing measures to improve livelihoods, social welfare

Chengdu, one of the leading new first-tier cities in China, is gaining popularity among young entrepreneurs for its growing capacity for innovation and comprehensive measures to help residents achieve a better and happier life.

Wang Zongfu, recognized as a top talent by the local government, moved to the city in 2017 to establish his business Chengdu Huirong Guoke Micro-system Co. The company today has more than 70 staff members and has entered into a rapid development stage, according to Wang.

"Choosing Chengdu to set up my business was the best decision I made," Wang said. "We quickly obtained a workplace, professionals and capital. The only thing we needed to think about was developing the best products.

"The government support made our journey easier, faster and without unnecessary detours."

Led by Wang, Huirong Guoke has developed a low-altitude radar which can be used to monitor drones flying above cities and ensure operators follow rules and regulations.

"It can detect drones that as small as a tennis ball, even they are many kilometers away. The radar can track drones and keep records of their movements," Wang said.

"Chengdu is a city which can help entrepreneurs turn dreams into reality."

As one of the "happiest cities" in China, Chengdu has long been a pioneer of working toward creating a better life for its residents. In 2021, the government initiated 10 major projects covering areas such as urban planning, talent attraction and improving living standards.

Wang said he hopes more young people can realize their dreams in Chengdu by taking advantage of the 10 projects.

Guo Liang, CEO of drone developer Aerofugia, has lived in Chengdu for six years.

The company, headquartered at the Chengdu Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, is a technology-driven company focusing on drones, internet of things platform development and innovative services. Established in 2015, it has factories and research centers in cities such as Beijing, Shanghai and Wuhan of Hubei province. It has a team with more than 400 people.

He said choosing Chengdu to start the business was a matter of course because the city is not just good for living, but also boasts a strong industrial foundation, large talent pool and strong policy support.

"Chengdu provides testing grounds for industry-use drones. Its fair and stable business environment ensures companies can concentrate on investment and operation," Guo said.

Guo said Chengdu's 10 projects, especially the one set up to support young talent and entrepreneurs, will be helpful in attracting young talent and supporting emerging industry growth.

Aerofugia is set to partner with German air transport developer Volocopter to create a new company in China. The new company will be headquartered in Chengdu.

Over the last few years, Chengdu has been developing new measures to lure young people. It released a talent service guideline, including 12 policies, in 2017 with the aim to better serve young talent. More than 490,000 people benefited from the 12 policies and settled in Chengdu.

Among which, 78.9 percent of them are below 30 years old. Chengdu is one of the most attractive cities for young talent among new first-tier cities in China.

The young talent and entrepreneur supporting project among the 10 major projects will give additional benefits to young people in innovation, start up business and job hunting.

The Chengdu government is taking measures to create more public innovation platforms to give all necessary help to young generations.

In 2021, Chengdu will have 120 key innovation support platforms and 1,750 ordinary innovation platforms.

Meanwhile, more financial support will be on offer this year to young dreamers, according to the local government.

To help young people settle more quickly in Chengdu, the city government has established an array of talent recruitment programs in recent years. The city has set a goal to attract about 100,000 professionals each year.

The city government said it will soon have a service system to help young people enjoy more convenience when buying or leasing residential properties.