Zhu Yihao, an owner of a coffee shop in Liandu district, Lishui, Zhejiang province, recently received his business license at the district's administrative service center, making him the 300,000th individual business owner in Lishui.

Last year, 44,392 new individual businesses were established in Lishui, making it the fourth fastest-growing city in the province. The top three sectors for these new businesses were wholesale and retail, accommodation and catering, and leasing and business services.

Lishui is focused on individual economic development by creating a business-friendly environment. The city has been expanding and improving its "Common Prosperity Entrepreneurial Service Center" and has launched five major support initiatives related to projects, finance, space, skills, and mentorship.

So far, the city has set up 35 service centers, helping 52,600 people. These centers have provided 20 entrepreneurial references, facilitated 1.42 billion yuan ($195.51 million) in specialized financing, offered 1,187 free short-term entrepreneurial spaces, and conducted 242 training sessions for 23,000 participants.

Lishui has also simplified high-frequency business processes such as registration, closure, relocation, information changes, and equity transfers. In 2024, the city completed 127,702 business registration transactions, with 98.87 percent of them reported online.

Additionally, Lishui has organized entrepreneurial courses and various skills training for 19,071 people, held 16 skills competitions, and established 11 entrepreneurial training centers in major fields like wooden toys, e-commerce, catering, and bearings.