Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China, or OVC) has released the "Implementation Measures for Optics Valley Top Talent (Teams) Policies", establishing an annual special fund aimed at attracting top-tier talent and teams worldwide, with individual projects receiving up to 100 million yuan ($14 million) in support.

OVC launches the "Optics Valley Top Talent Policy". [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The policy targets three key groups of top talent: recipients of major international science and technology awards such as the Nobel Prize and Turing Award; industry leaders, including national-level talent and R&D heads from renowned companies; and future technology pioneers from prestigious universities and research institutions.

Aligning closely with industrial development needs, the policy emphasizes two main directions: "future-oriented leading industries" and "industrialization of future technologies", prioritizing support for sectors like optoelectronics and life sciences, as well as niche markets.

Projects aligned with OVC's strategic directions can receive funding of between 20 and 100 million yuan. For critical projects in high demand, OVC offers up to 100 million yuan, with up to 20 percent of the funding available upfront in the project's first year.

OVC will also encourage various funds to provide equity investment to project entities, alleviating concerns for top talent in innovation and entrepreneurship and supporting rapid project development post-launch.

OVC will annually initiate a concentrated application process for top talent projects. Flexible and convenient methods, including competitive selection and targeted commissioning, will be employed to continuously support the implementation of top-talent projects aligned with technological and industrial development needs.