The Yangtze Delta Region Institute of Tsinghua University, Zhejiang has played an important role in China's innovation ecosystem over the past two decades, driving technological breakthroughs and industrial transformation across one of the nation's most dynamic regions.

Established in 2003 through a partnership between the Zhejiang provincial government and Tsinghua University, the Jiaxing-based institute serves the entire Yangtze River Delta region, fostering high-tech industries while modernizing traditional sectors.

With over 1,000 employees including two full-time academicians, 13 part-time academicians and 34 provincial-level talents, the institute operates on four core missions: integrated education, technological self-reliance, regional innovation development and institutional reform.

"We have developed a five-pillar strategy emphasizing Party leadership, technological innovation, talent aggregation, regional empowerment, and industrial transformation," explained Huang Kaisheng, the institute's Party secretary and director.

The institute houses substantial infrastructure including a national key laboratory for flexible electronics, a national laboratory for advanced ceramics, and multiple innovation centers.

Scientific achievements include 984 authorized patents, and contributions, alongside 47 national and industry standards. The institute has incubated 2,600 technology companies and nurtured 82 listed enterprises, including notable names like Li Auto, Leapmotor and Pop Mart. By 2025, the companies collectively generated over 700 billion yuan ($103.47 billion) in output value and exceeded 2 trillion yuan in market capitalization.

International partnerships span technology centers in Silicon Valley, Boston and Munich, supported by liaison offices across 18 global locations.

Moving forward, the institute plans to continue advancing open-source vertical AI models for industrial applications, while maintaining direct collaborations with major international companies.

"Success requires understanding enterprise challenges and rapidly assembling teams to help companies enhance capabilities while securing stronger market positions," Huang emphasized, reflecting the institute's commitment to practical, industry-focused innovation.

The institute's location in Jiaxing carries special significance, as this historic city and Shanghai are birthplaces of the Communist Party of China. "We integrate the red spirit into our work," Huang added. "We value passion, shoulder our mission, let actions speak louder than words, and strive for excellence. These values drive many of us to make meaningful contributions."