A new artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem platform—dubbed the “AI supermarket”—was launched in Shanghai in February, offering a one-stop-shop for AI resources, including DeepSeek models, government-subsidized computing power, and high-quality data corpora.
This initiative is part of the latest efforts by the Shanghai Foundation Model Innovation Center, a large-scale AI incubator that hosts over 100 companies and aims to foster the development of cutting-edge AI technologies.
Spanning 60,000 square meters, the center provides developers with key resources for ecosystem growth, including 18 policy support measures such as computing subsidies, fundraising networks, and open data platforms. These initiatives are designed to accelerate the growth of AI in the region.
During a visit to the incubator as part of his inspection tour of Shanghai, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of AI development and governance. He urged the city to take the lead in AI innovation and to accelerate its transformation into a global center for scientific and technological excellence.
The tour came shortly after China’s leadership held a dedicated AI study session, in which President Xi stressed the need for China to gain a competitive edge in this crucial sector.
AI Innovation Hub
Launched in 2023, the center is one of China’s first dedicated incubators and accelerators for large-scale AI models. Its mission is to help Shanghai establish a world-class AI industry cluster that is both competitive on a global scale and capable of driving cutting-edge AI research.
To support resident companies, the center provides five major functional platforms, including resources for computing power, open data, evaluation services, financial support, and comprehensive services. These platforms offer everything from access to text corpora and computer resources to investment funds and filing guidance for startups.
The center is also working to drive the commercialization of small vertical AI models in key sectors like consumer tech, entertainment, and finance. This allows AI innovations to seamlessly integrate into various industries.
During his visit, Xi highlighted that AI technology is entering a phase of rapid growth and emphasized Shanghai’s role in pioneering AI development and governance. He called for the city to build on its successful experiences in nurturing the AI industry.
In the incubator, enterprises across the AI model value chain converge, creating an ideal collaborative environment. This includes foundational technology providers, application developers, scene designers, computing power providers, and product marketers. The collaboration across these companies fuels AI innovation and accelerates the development of next-generation technologies.
To meet the growing demand for talent in the AI sector, Shanghai’s Xuhui District has rolled out a global AI talent recruitment plan. This includes the establishment of the West Bund International Talent Hub, which aims to attract top AI talent to the region and support the expansion of AI startups. The talent hub also houses the Shanghai Emerging Industry Young Entrepreneurs Association, fostering young innovators who are key to driving forward China’s AI ambitions.
Xi emphasized that AI is a rapidly evolving industry, and it holds particular importance for young talent. He encouraged the next generation of innovators to showcase their skills and contribute to the modernization of China through AI advancements.