In a significant move to bolster the artificial intelligence (AI) industry cluster, the Nanshan District Science, Technology and Innovation Bureau has recently released a draft document for supporting AI innovative teams. This initiative is part of the district's "Six Ones" action plan aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the district.

The document focuses on the detailed process for identifying and supporting the "Model Camp" series space. "Model Camp" is a flagship incubator in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area that focuses on large AI models. The "Model Camp" AI ecosystem community in Shenzhen has already launched an innovative research and development space spanning over 50,000 square meters. This space offers a substantial benefit to resident teams, providing up to two years of rent-free occupancy. Even after this rent-free period expires, eligible resident teams in policy-oriented industrial research and development buildings can enjoy a 30% to70% discount on market rent.

To further incentivize AI innovation, Nanshan plans to provide graded funding to the units identified as part of the "Model Camp" series space. The funding will be based on evaluation results, with a maximum annual funding of 5 million yuan (US$695,540) available for each application project.

The policy has defined two categories of declaration objects: spatial and enterprise, each with specific conditions. For enterprises seeking entry into the "Model Camp," several criteria must be met. The main business of the enterprise should be concentrated in the AI field, covering areas such as basic model research and development, algorithm chip design, AI vertical industry applications, intelligent hardware innovation, and embodied intelligent hardware. The enterprise must also have an independent legal entity and operate legally within Nanshan.

In terms of establishment time, enterprises generally should not have been in operation for more than three years. However, there is some flexibility. For mature projects that have been recognized by experts as possessing core technologies, significant scientific research achievements, and have received angel investment and venture capital, or have won awards in important entrepreneurship competitions like the "Entrepreneurs Star" contest, the time limit can be relaxed to up to five years. Additionally, other entry conditions recognized by relevant documents of the district's science, technology and innovation bureau may also apply.