Blue Whale Residency Program in Wuxi

Author: Shanghai BenCham

Blue Whale Residency Program: Where Global Innovation Meets Wuxi

The Benelux Chamber of Commerce is proud to share an exciting initiative from our member Zero Hour Culture: the Blue Whale Residency Program in Wuxi, China. This two-week residency offers international entrepreneurs, startups, and cross-disciplinary creators the chance to turn vision into reality in one of China’s most forward-looking cities.

Wuxi, often called the “Pearl of Taihu,” combines 3,000 years of cultural heritage with a strong innovation ecosystem. Today, it is a national hub for the Internet of Things, integrated circuits, biomedicine, and advanced manufacturing, hosting more than 100 Fortune Global 500 companies alongside a fast-growing startup community.

The Blue Whale Residency Program is designed to bridge global talent with Wuxi’s industries and resources. Participants will:

  • Visit leading innovation parks, R&D centers, and flagship companies.

  • Join closed-door discussions with government officials, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs.

  • Pitch projects in Wuxi’s International Pitch Hall to investors and potential partners.

  • Exchange ideas with a diverse community of global innovators.

Beyond business, the program offers an immersive cultural experience. Participants will stay in international apartments, explore Wuxi’s historic canals and food culture, and enjoy curated activities showcasing Jiangnan’s renowned hospitality.

The residency especially welcomes:

  • Tech entrepreneurs and startup founders (AI, integrated circuits, biomedicine).

  • Overseas tech companies looking to establish or expand in China.

  • Cross-disciplinary innovators seeking collaboration and new ideas.

Residency period: August–December 2025 (any continuous two weeks)
Application deadline: September 30, 2025
Apply by sending your CV + project intro/business plan + next-step plan for China/Wuxi: zerohourculture@163.com

This is a unique opportunity to connect global talent with China’s innovation ecosystem, and perhaps find the next big partnership in Wuxi.