Pudong New Area Establishes Natural Science Foundation to Boost Stable Investment in Tech Innovation

On December 11, Pudong New Area officially launched the Pudong New Area Natural Science Foundation (NSFPD), marking a significant exploration and breakthrough in China's local basic research support system. The foundation operates under the principle of "government guidance, enterprise leadership, and social participation," focusing on three leading industries—integrated circuits, biopharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence—as well as future industries. It aims to enhance the diversified funding mechanism for basic research through institutional innovation.

The NSFPD introduces a tripartite model comprising the "Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund of the National Natural Science Foundation," "Enterprise Joint Funds," and "Scientific Donations." The Regional Innovation and Development Joint Fund is fully funded by the government, while the Enterprise Joint Funds involve co-investment from both the government and leading tech companies. Scientific donations come from various social sources, with funding priorities aligned to donor preferences, emphasizing free exploration.

The foundation underscores the critical role of enterprises in basic research. The Enterprise Joint Funds adopt a new approach where companies define research challenges, provide funding for exploration, and oversee project implementation. This model strengthens enterprises' role as innovators and encourages greater investment in basic research. For every corporate contribution, the government provides matching funds of up to 30%, shifting the funding logic from "in Pudong" to "for Pudong," and opening applications to top-tier research entities nationwide.

During the launch event, Pudong's Science and Technology Commission signed framework agreements with HENGRUI PHARMA and IM Motors, establishing the "NSFPD-HENGRUI Innovation and Development Joint Fund" and the "NSFPD-IM Innovation and Development Joint Fund," respectively. These partnerships mark the operational phase of the Enterprise Joint Funds. Over the next three years, HENGRUI PHARMA and IM Motors are expected to invest approximately 100 million yuan. In biopharmaceuticals, research will focus on anesthesia, critical care medicine, and autoimmune diseases, while AI efforts will target breakthroughs in autonomous driving, vehicle chips, and solid-state batteries.

The Enterprise Joint Funds prioritize goal-oriented applied basic research, supporting three project tiers: - Key projects (2–5 million yuan per project) addressing major scientific or industry challenges. - General projects (500,000–800,000 yuan per project) tackling foundational research questions. - Exploratory projects (200,000–300,000 yuan per project) focusing on future industries, with emphasis on supporting scientists under 45.

To ensure scientific rigor and foresight, Pudong has formed a high-level NSFPD Committee comprising academicians and experts across disciplines. The committee will align with Pudong's strategic goals as an international tech innovation hub, oversee funding priorities, and promote deep integration of technological and industrial innovation through diversified investments.

Pudong also invites global universities, research institutions, enterprises, and social organizations to support basic research via fund establishment or donations, fostering a collaborative ecosystem for diversified research funding.