Call for Grant Applications -HICOOL Global Entrepreneurship Competition 2025
About Organisation
Launched in 2020, the HICOOL Global Entrepreneurship Competition is the most prominent annual startup event in China, designed to attract and support global entrepreneurs. This competition provides a platform for innovative startups to present their ideas, gain visibility, and connect with leading venture capitalists and business angels. HICOOL focuses on fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem by offering funding, networking, and mentorship opportunities to early-stage and growth-stage startups.
The competition welcomes founders from diverse backgrounds, regardless of nationality or prior experience in the Chinese market. By participating, entrepreneurs gain access to investors, industry leaders, and potential business partners, enabling them to expand their operations and establish a presence in Beijing. The event is structured into 12 specialized technology tracks, allowing participants to compete within their respective industry domains fairly. Additionally, winners benefit from financial grants, strategic business guidance, and collaboration opportunities with established enterprises. HICOOL aims to facilitate the entry of international startups into China’s thriving innovation landscape, providing the necessary resources to scale and succeed.
About the Grant
The HICOOL Global Entrepreneurship Competition provides substantial financial support to outstanding startups worldwide. The competition is divided into 12 technology tracks covering sectors such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Biotechnology, Smart Cities, and Cultural Creativity. Startups at different stages of development—whether in the early “Maker Stage” or the more advanced “Growth Stage”—can compete for funding and other business development opportunities.
Winning teams in each track are awarded up to 2 Million RMB (~250,000 EUR) in grant funding. Beyond financial incentives, the competition facilitates business matching, networking, and exposure to top Chinese investors and corporate partners. Entrepreneurs receive strategic guidance and connections that can accelerate their market entry and operational growth in China. The grant aims to support startups in establishing themselves in Beijing within the next 12 months, fostering innovation and cross-border collaboration. With fair competition across different tracks and phases, the HICOOL competition is an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs looking to access funding, mentorship, and market expansion in China’s competitive startup ecosystem.
Who can Apply?
HICOOL welcomes startup founders from all countries, whether they have an incorporated business or not. Nationality does not impact eligibility, but applicants must be fluent in English and have a strong interest in entering the Chinese market, with plans to establish a presence in Beijing within a year. The competition offers opportunities for both early-stage entrepreneurs and those with registered companies.
For international applicants, there are no restrictions based on experience in China. Chinese applicants must meet additional criteria: they should have studied, worked, or conducted business outside of China for at least one year and must have returned after January 1, 2014.
Startups registered in Beijing before December 31, 2023, must apply under the Growth Stage. Startups registered after January 1, 2024, or those without a registered company in China, must apply under the Maker Stage. If applying as an individual, the applicant should be the startup’s main founder and hold at least 30% equity. If applying as a team, the main founder must hold the largest equity stake, while team members must each hold at least 5%, with a collective minimum of 50%.
How to Apply?
Interested applicants must submit their proposals based on their industry track and development stage. The application requires a business plan, founder details, and a statement of intent to establish a presence in Beijing.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted before the competition deadline on March 31, 2025.
Last Date To Apply
The final date to apply for the HICOOL Global Entrepreneurship Competition 2025 is March 31, 2025.
Grant Amount
Winning startups can receive up to 2 Million RMB (~250,000 EUR), along with business networking, mentorship, and investor connections.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
