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A group of UK entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts recently visited Shanghai to explore international business opportunities in artificial intelligence, finance, and healthcare sectors.
Among the visitors were Cynthia Davis, co-founder and CEO of a recruitment platform focused on diversity and inclusion; Nzube Ufodike, co-founder of a financial education podcast; and Paul Hercok, CEO of a consultancy specializing in medical device compliance. They spoke with us at the Bund Innovation Hub, located in Shanghai’s central Huangpu district, to share insights about their trip and their perspectives on China.
Davis revealed plans for her company to establish an office in China and collaborate with local tech-savvy partners. She has traveled to Shanghai three times this year, including an recent visit in July to attend the World AI Conference. She expressed admiration for China’s innovation, especially in artificial intelligence, which helps her team improve their platform through local expertise.
Crown Caste is a podcast designed to educate entrepreneurs about investment strategies and fundraising. Ufodike explained that their goal is to reach more Chinese listeners who wish to understand how to attract international capital, as well as to feature Chinese investors sharing their insights on investment practices.
Ufodike, who invests primarily in early-stage companies, highlighted China’s leadership in AI and robotics. He noted the significant support Chinese startups receive from government-backed financial institutions, which contrasts with the shorter funding cycles typical of many global venture capital firms. He believes other countries could learn from China’s patient capital approach, which better supports small and medium-sized enterprises.
Hercok’s company helps medical device manufacturers navigate regulatory requirements when entering UK and European markets. He pointed out that Chinese firms often partner with local companies to sell their products abroad, missing out on direct market access and the chance to offer new Chinese innovations to global patients. With an aging population and increasing health issues in the UK, Hercok sees innovation as the key solution.
Having seen Shanghai’s innovative landscape firsthand, Hercok is confident that local companies can meet international demands. He believes closing the gap will create mutually beneficial opportunities for both regions.
The Bund Innovation and Technology Center, opened in July, spans seven floors and 4,700 square meters. It includes office spaces, studios, and exhibition areas, aiming to foster an open community for digital content creators and fintech professionals.
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