The final of the seventh China (Jinan) New Growth Drivers Innovation and Entrepreneurship Contest took place in Jinan, Shandong province, from Nov 15 to 16.

The contest attracted 4,740 projects from 49 countries and regions, focusing on areas such as big data and new-generation information technology, intelligent manufacturing and high-end equipment, biomedicine, fine steel and advanced materials, modern agriculture, and new energy, which are the leading industries in Jinan. A total of 210 projects advanced to the final round of the contest.

This year’s contest awarded 10 first prizes, 15 second prizes, 25 third prizes, and 27 expert nomination awards.

Ding Weiming, a member of the team that won the first prize, said that their project focuses on the research and development of high-end bionic ceramic materials and intelligent manufacturing of dental crowns.

According to Ding, the bionic teeth they developed are made using zirconia, an advanced ceramic material imported from Sweden. By integrating traditional Yixing purple clay pottery techniques, they have developed a set of high-strength and aesthetically-pleasing nano-ceramic teeth with a service life of up to 60 years.

One of the second prizes went to the team behind the small micro bionic robot project, which can be applied in public safety, popular science education, and low-space travel.

"The award is a reflection of Jinan's strong desire to attract talent and develop new technology," said Wu Qingnan, a member of the project team. He also expressed hope that the platform will support the team in transforming their scientific and technological innovations into tangible achievements, contributing to the development of Jinan's low-altitude economy and related industries.

Jinan has hosted the contest every year since 2018, leading to the launch of 498 projects in the city. It has become a vital platform for the city to attract talent and innovation resources.