Guideline to enhance financial aid and foster innovation among young people
China will ramp up efforts to provide more effective financial and policy support for young entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners as part of a broader push to invigorate the economy and promote higher-quality employment.
Seven central government departments, including the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Finance, recently issued a guideline aimed at optimizing the business environment and fostering more individual entrepreneurs and startups.
The guideline underscores the importance of cultivating entrepreneurial awareness, particularly among young people. Universities and vocational colleges are encouraged to organize innovation-related activities and competitions while integrating more entrepreneurship-focused resources into their curricula.
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College graduates, migrant workers, demobilized military personnel and people having trouble finding jobs due to financial or physical difficulties will be the key beneficiaries of the government's support. They will be provided with opportunities to gain hands-on experience at well-established companies, the guideline says.
Local authorities are encouraged to use digital tools to create entrepreneurial simulation platforms, allowing aspiring business owners to gain immersive, real-world experience in company management, marketing and commercial operations.
The guideline also calls for improved public services for entrepreneurs. Local governments can establish mentorship programs by inviting successful business leaders, investors and experts to provide guidance.
For those whose ventures fail, authorities are urged to offer assistance in labor relations and social security, as well as provide loan support for those seeking a second chance.
The government will also enhance financial support by expanding tax reductions, offering low-interest loans and providing one-time subsidies to eligible entrepreneurs.
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Banks are encouraged to streamline their approval processes to facilitate financing for startups.
Additionally, China plans to promote entrepreneurship by highlighting success stories and awarding individuals who create significant employment opportunities or contribute to industrial development.
Li Chang'an, a professor at the Academy of China Open Economy Studies at the University of International Business and Economics in Beijing, said entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in easing employment pressure and generating job opportunities.
"Our surveys show that a self-employed individual can create three to five jobs, while a small private startup can generate about 10 jobs," he said, adding that innovation and entrepreneurship have long been part of China's national strategy to drive technological progress and economic growth.
