Why China

China’s emergence has had an extraordinary influence on the global economy. Its rise as an economic powerhouse has had a profound impact on its entrepreneurship scene with other countries seeking to emulate China’s success. 

China’s innovation ecosystem has grown exponentially, and it’s approach to technology embraces agility and rapid iteration. The country’s fast-paced evolution necessitates constant adaptation, nurturing resilience and creative problem-solving, and these are crucial traits for any entrepreneur.

China’s dominance in emerging technologies like e-commerce, fintech, and artificial intelligence provides invaluable insights into the future trajectory of global business. Observing how these technologies have seamlessly integrated into daily life showcases the potential transformative power of innovation.

Today, China ranks as the world’s second largest producer of “unicorns” – which have disrupted traditional business models through innovation and creativity, according to the Global Unicorn Index 2023. The developments of the Belt and Road initiative, the internationalisation of the Renminbi (RMB), the Digital Economy, and the massive outflow of capital from Chinese companies in search of overseas markets offer new opportunities in these key growth areas.

Singapore Valley Awards offers a valuable opportunity to be exposed to China’s thriving business community. The SVA internship programme allows undergraduates to gain valuable experience from a vibrant startup ecosystem and assimilate cohesively with one of the largest global markets. The exposure to overseas businesses and communities would be highly beneficial for gaining insight into different business environments, and acquire overseas business knowledge and cross-cultural communication skills.

“We had to go through an extensive interview where we pitched the business idea to a panel of impressive judges from China… It was such an amazing experience for me during this whole process. China is indeed the innovation hub in Asia and it would be such a great opportunity to know more China and the entrepreneurial scene there.”

– Zeke Soh, National University of Singapore, intern at Qunar