GIA Shanghai (Impact Hub) Acceleration Programme
For Singapore-based climate tech startups looking to expand into China through Shanghai.
Connects Singapore companies with in-market partners and opportunities to test and commercialise their solutions.
About this programme
Organised by Impact Hub Shanghai, the GIA Shanghai Acceleration Programme is designed to help Singapore tech startups and innovative SMEs in the sustainability space build real traction and unlock collaboration opportunities across China.
Through curated access to Chinese corporates, industry organisations, experts, and key ecosystem players, participants will navigate their China market entry with confidence and clarity based on real-life scenarios.
About Impact Hub Shanghai
Impact Hub has been a catalyst for entrepreneurial action and collaboration since 2005. It is a locally rooted, globally connected network driving environmental and societal change in over 120 locations across more than 67 countries. Every Impact Hub is established and operated by a local team, allowing them to reach deep into local markets and communities, while linking global innovation resources to create global impact in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations.
Impact Hub Shanghai was established in 2017 as the first Impact Hub in mainland China, bringing together corporates, startups, investors, government, and academia to co-create solutions for pressing challenges in sustainability and innovation, from low carbon transitions and circular economy to new energy and sustainable materials. They hold a strong track record of facilitating open innovation — structuring challenges, matching startups to corporates, and driving POCs and pilots to real commercial outcomes.
Key features
Track 1: Online Discovery (Open to all applicants)
Get matched and connected before you enter the China market.
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Tailored 1-on-1 online sessions with 2-3 Chinese corporates, investors, or industry partners -
Cohort onboarding to position your solution for the Chinese market -
Pitch deck review and feedback to sharpen your corporate engagement
Track 2: Physical Immersion
Take it further with an in-market experience in China.
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Immersive trip featuring a co-creation bootcamp to engage with corporates, government and key ecosystem players, as well as offline corporate visits -
Expert monitoring on industry policies, the China business environment for startups in sustainability etc -
Participation in high-level forums and industry events
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Ongoing post-programme follow-up to advance POCs, pilots, and commercial deals
Eligibility
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Singapore-based tech startups and SMEs -
Seed to series B funding stage, or clear client traction
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Incorporated in Singapore with at least 30% local equity held directly or indirectly by Singaporean(s) and/or Singapore PR(s)
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An existing product in the market with demonstrated initial traction, or validated through partnership, investment, or proven research
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Founder's commitment and sufficient resources to actively participate in the programme
GIA Shanghai (Impact Hub) Acceleration Programme
