AI avatar Xiao Yue greets attendees at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Shaoxing Talent Week on Sept 21. [Photo/Shaoxing News]

The 2024 Shaoxing Talent Week commenced in Shaoxing, East China's Zhejiang province, on Sept 21, signaling a major push for regional innovation and entrepreneurship.

The event convened over 200 experts, academicians, young professionals, and industry representatives to chart a path forward for technological advancement and economic growth.

With a comprehensive lineup of 17 key activities and 18 exclusive experiences, this year's event aims to attract top talent from across the globe. The city is offering unprecedented opportunities for collaboration, making it a premier destination for innovators and entrepreneurs looking to make an impact.

Jean-guy Alex Fontaine, chief scientist of Zhejiang Sanlux Intelligent Equipment Manufacture Co and director of Jean-guy International Joint Lab, speaks during 2024 Shaoxing Talent Week on Sept 21. [Photo/Shaoxing News]

A centerpiece of Shaoxing's talent strategy is the "Shaoxing Talent Development Promotion Regulations", enacted on May 1.

The regulation underscores Shaoxing's commitment to fostering a world-class talent ecosystem. It designates the week of Sept 25 — marking the birth of celebrated writer Lu Xun — as the annual Shaoxing Talent Week.

Shaoxing has introduced several targeted policies this year to strengthen its appeal to high-level talent in key sectors such as integrated circuits and the burgeoning low-altitude economy. These policies offer comprehensive support packages, from financial incentives to enhanced career development opportunities, aimed at driving sustained innovation.

Shaoxing has so far attracted over 1,100 top-tier professionals, with its overseas recruitment efforts ranking among the best in China. For two consecutive years, Shaoxing has placed 23rd nationally in terms of talent attraction, positioning itself as a rising hub for cutting-edge technology and industry leadership.