Swiss Innovation China Roadshow 2024
With a population of 1.4 billion and a GDP of USD 17.5 trillion, China stands as the world's second-largest economy. While entrepreneurs recognize the vast opportunities within Asia, the fastest-growing economic region, many question how to transform this potential into tangible business success for their companies in Switzerland.
To address this and showcase the possibilities for raising funding and business development, we are thrilled to extend an invitation to startups for the "Swiss Innovation China Roadshow"
Venturelab, in collaboration with SUCCEED CONSULTING, has designed an intensive program with a singular mission: to accelerate deal flow in this leading global emerging market.
Venturelab, in collaboration with SUCCEED CONSULTING, has designed an intensive program with a singular mission: to accelerate deal flow in this leading global emerging market.
The timing is impeccable. With the lifting of all pandemic restrictions, China has declared its readiness to welcome business, reinforcing this commitment during the early 2024 meetings between the Minister President of China and Swiss President Amherd in Berne and Davos. This visit underscored a strong invitation to industries pivotal to the national 'Positive productivity growth' strategy.
SUCCEED CONSULTING and Venturelab have jointly identified sectors like medtech, cleantech, and clean energy as primed for engagement with China's surge in public health and sustainability innovations. Jordi Montserrat, Managing Partner at Venturelab, noted, "Following a thorough market analysis, we are poised to support a Swiss business delegation in these critical fields, aligning with China's robust demand for innovative solutions."
Participants will gain insights from a Swiss advisory firm deeply connected across Europe, China, and America. In concert with Swissnex China and the Swiss Embassy, SUCCEED CONSULTING will offer end-to-end preparation for navigating cultural, business development, deal negotiations, and travel nuances in China—before, during, and after the trip. Venturelab's team will accompany the delegation, ensuring seamless support for the selected startups throughout the program.
The itinerary is crafted to optimize encounters with investors and businesses keen on collaboration with Swiss startups, incorporating major hubs like Shanghai and Beijing, alongside specialized tech centers in Hangzhou and other strategic locations. Inspired by the success of previous Venture Leaders China roadshows, this trip also leverages the unique opportunities available in 2025.
Planned Itinerary (note: pre-liminary - still subject to change)
- Fri 21.6. Shanghai, Volvo R&D, roadshow, welcome dinner
09:30 - 11:30 Visit Volvo R&D site
13:30-16:30 Roadshow to local Investors by Swissnex
17:00-18:30 Cocktail receiption
18:30-20:30 Welcome Dinner with investors by Swissnex
20:30-22:00 City tour on the bund
Stay: Shanghai
- Sat 22.6. To Hangzhou, city tour, culture experiencing
09:30-11:30 to Hangzhou by bus
Check in hotel (Yuhang)
Afternoon Old town tour
Stay: Hangzhou Yuhang
- Sun 23.6.: 15km Hike & Pitch organized by Lear Capital
9:00 Zhejiang University Yihang Route
12:00 Lunch: Restaurant in the middle section of Yihang Route
14:00 Hiking the second half of Zhejiang University Yihang Route
17:30 Dinner: Restaurant near the hiking destination
Stay: Hangzhou Yuhang
- Mon 24.6. Day 4 Investor roadshow, welcome dinner
09:30-16:30 Roadshow to local investors by Succeed Consulting
17:00-18:00 Cocktail receiption
18:30-20:30 Welcome dinner with investors by Yuhang
Stay: Hangzhou Yuhang
- Tue 25.6. Day 5 Visit Alibaba headquarter, local introduction
09:00-11:00 Visit Alibaba and Alipay headquarter
11:30-14:30 Introduction by Yuhang government during Lunch with Q&A
15:00-17:00 One on one meeting with government / expert/ company
Free activity
Stay: Hangzhou Yuhang
- Wed 26.6. Day 6 to Suzhou (TBD) , city tour
Morning to Suzhou by bus
13:30-16:30 Roadshow to local investors by SC
17:00-18:00 Cocktail receiption
18:30-20:30 Welcome dinner by local government
City tour
Stay: Suzhou
- Thu 27.6. Day 7 to Beijing, visit company, city tour
Morning to Beijing by train
Afternoon City tour/Great Wall
18:30-20:30 Welcome dinner by local government
Stay: Beijing
- Fri 28.6. Day 8 Roadshow, Farewell dinner
09:00-12:00 Roadshow to local investors by SC
12:00-14:00 Introduction by local government during Lunch with Q&A
14:30-16:00 One on one meeting with government / expert/ company
17:00-21:00 to Swiss embassy by bus
Cocktail receiption and farewell dinner
Stay: Beijing
- Sat 29.6. Return to Switzerland
Investment + Value
- For Venturelab alumni selected by the jury, the China roadshow is complimentary (excluding international flights).
- Non-alumni may participate at a price of CHF 2,500 per person/startup covering visa handling + hotel + transportation + meals + program-related amenities
Embrace the Journey: A Cultural and Personal Odyssey
Beyond business, this roadshow serves as a profound cultural exchange and avenue for personal growth. Participants will immerse in China's rich heritage, engage with local entrepreneurs, and gain insights into the societal values driving one of the world's most dynamic economies. This enriching experience promises to broaden perspectives and inspire innovation.
Sustained Momentum: Comprehensive Post-Roadshow Support
Our commitment extends beyond the trip, ensuring the valuable connections made lead to lasting success. Through follow-up meetings, mentorship programs, and targeted workshops, we support participants in leveraging their roadshow experience for long-term growth and market entry into China.
The Swiss Innovation China Roadshow is jointly organized by Venturelab and SUCCEED CONSULTING, and supported by Swissnex China, Linear Capital, Yuhang Future Tech Town, and Daxing Hydrogen Park, in close consultation with Swiss Embassy in China, the Chinese Embassy in Switzerland, Hangzhou Yuhang government, and V-Next Shenzhen Stock Exchange.
Get Ready: learn about opportunities in China
Inspired by: Venture Leaders roadshow
Learn more: on opportunities in China
Are you interested? If yes, please register to learn more and apply!
