Cutting-edge life sciences innovation incubator SH-INNO was launched in Zhangjiang Science City in Shanghai on Sept 10, with great expectations about its future.

The incubator was established through the collaboration of Shanghai Industrial Investment (Holdings) Co Ltd, Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holdings Co Ltd, leading universities and research institutions.

Since the recruitment of partners began late last year, SH-INNO has attracted over 20 companies and institutions – including Bayer, Sartorius, Shanghai State-owned Capital Investment Co Ltd and Shanghai Healthcare Capital.

The occupancy rate for research and development space has already reached nearly 90 percent. Most notably, the Bayer Co.Lab made its debut in China there – marking Bayer's largest co-creation platform in the Asia-Pacific region.

SH-INNO covers a total floor area of 127,000 square meters, comprising four specialized buildings – a research and development office building, a research and development laboratory building, a multi-purpose service building and a pilot production building.

Together, the facilities are said to create a diverse R&D ecosystem.

Moreover, the incubator is offering three dedicated centers for innovative business enterprises.

1. Investor center: This center brings together high-quality resources, including government-guided funds, venture capital, angel investors, institutional investment, translational funds and high-net-worth individuals. It aims to provide full lifecycle funding support for resident companies – covering original discoveries, early research, process optimization, clinical development and commercialization.

The center builds a comprehensive network for incubations, investment, mergers and acquisitions, with the Shanghai Healthcare Capital already established within the park.

2. Brand activity center: This center regularly hosts scientific seminars, academic forums, policy interpretations, project roadshows and investor meetings to help foster a vibrant innovation community.

3. Resource center: This center integrates a wide range of premium resources – including toxicology, pharmacology, regulatory affairs, finance, human resources and marketing. It offers comprehensive theoretical and practical guidance to enterprises. For example, the park features a dedicated policy window that covers the entire process of drug approvals, reviews and regulations – providing long-term, on-site consultation and guidance services.

Innovative enterprises can apply for residency at the incubator with a single click through the "SH-INNO" WeChat mini-program. They can also access comprehensive support through this mobile platform, including information updates, and business startup services.