The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK) successfully hosted the Nansha–Qianhai GBA Start-up 2D1N Study Tour, offering a transformative experience for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to understand the opportunities, infrastructure, and innovation landscape of the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
Held from 24 to 25 October 2025, the two-day, one-night tour brought together students, alumni, and start-up team members to explore two of the GBA’s most vibrant innovation corridors—Nansha in Guangzhou and Qianhai in Shenzhen. The programme was part of the GBA Youth Start-up and Social Innovation Programme, funded by the Youth Development Fund under the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau.
Industry Exposure and Smart Manufacturing Insights
The tour commenced with a visit to the GAC Toyota plant in Nansha, a Toyota Global Model Factory known for its advanced smart manufacturing systems. Participants had the rare opportunity to observe automated production lines, robotic assembly, and green manufacturing practices in action. The visit provided valuable insights into how traditional industries are being reshaped by Industry 4.0 technologies and set the tone for the tour’s broader theme of innovation and transformation.
Connecting with Innovation Ecosystems
At Nansha Innovation Bay, participants were introduced to a comprehensive support ecosystem designed to accelerate entrepreneurship. Through interactive briefings, they explored government-backed funding schemes, startup incubation services, and cross-border collaboration platforms tailored for Hong Kong youth entrepreneurs.
The MOU was signed by Professor Jeanne Fu, Vice President (Learning and Student Experience) and Director of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) of The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong (HSUHK); and Mr. Chan, General Manager of NiU Space, to strengthen collaboration with China Mainland Youth Entrepreneurship Representatives.
The second day brought participants to the Qianhai Shenzhen–Hong Kong Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub, a flagship incubation institution that fosters cross-border start-up development. Here, attendees learned about policy incentives, co-working infrastructure, and real-life success stories of young founders scaling ventures across the region.
Immersive Technology and Future-Oriented Learning
One of the most engaging components of the tour was the low-altitude technology showcase and VR immersive experience, which vividly illustrated the rapid pace of technological advancement in the GBA. From aerial innovation applications to AI-powered industrial solutions, participants were given a hands-on look at how emerging technologies are being integrated across sectors.
These immersive demonstrations not only deepened participants' understanding of the tech landscape but also sparked conversations on how such innovations can be adapted for their own entrepreneurial pursuits.
Building Perspective, Confidence, and Community
Throughout the tour, participants had the opportunity to engage in cross-disciplinary discussions, reflect on business model development, and network with fellow innovators. The experience offered practical exposure, first-hand learning, and cultural immersion—all of which are essential for building globally-minded, regionally active entrepreneurs.
Looking Ahead
The study tour represents CIE's continued commitment to equipping young entrepreneurs with actionable knowledge, cross-border exposure, and meaningful connections in the GBA. As the region continues to evolve into a global innovation hub, CIE will remain at the forefront of cultivating the next generation of changemakers.
