Become a Startup Scout
in
at
Tsinghua University

Unlock new horizons with VC startup scouting! Tsinghua University members can enrich their entrepreneurial acumen, experience dynamic growth sectors firsthand, and network with industry pioneers - all while shaping the future of innovation.

About

Tsinghua University is renowned worldwide as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and startup culture. Many promising tech startups have emerged from the University, drawing the interest and funding of venture capitalists.

One of the most prominent initiatives dedicated to entrepreneurship at Tsinghua University is the x-lab. Founded in 2013, it is a university-based platform designed to foster creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The x-lab provides mentors, training, resources, and funding opportunities for both student and professional entrepreneurs.

Many prominent entrepreneurs and business leaders have come from Tsinghua University. Some illustrious alumni include Robin Li, the co-founder of Baidu, and Neil Shen, founding and managing partner of Sequoia Capital China. Baidu, often referred to as the "Google of China", is one of the largest AI and internet companies worldwide. Sequoia Capital China is a branch of the global venture capital firm Sequoia Capital.

Historically, the University has strong connections with the VC and startup sectors in China. Those sectors have grown rapidly in recent years, fueled by a high-tech boom and the Chinese government's push for innovation and entrepreneurship. In 2020, the University's x-lab held its 7th Anniversary, having nurtured 2946 team projects and serving more than 20,000 Tsinghua University members.

The university's thriving VC ecosystem features a range of venture capital firms and angel investors keen to tap the talent within the institution. Tsinghua Holdings, wholly-owned by Tsinghua University, is another critical player in driving innovation and supporting startups within the University community.

As a Scout, You Can...

Kickstart Your Venture Capital Career

Showing your skills in picking successful startups and advising founders is the surest way to build your reputation and secure a venture capital role.

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Help Your Ecosystem Thrive

Your community, region, or group thrives when its founders are given the chance to succeed before going back and reinvesting in their comunities.

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Earn a Share in Startups Without Investing in Them

Earn a share in startups you scout without the funds to invest directly just like a VC partner.

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Monetise Your Content & Community

As a podcaster, community manager, or event organiser you have a front-row seat to interesting startups which you can monetise by helping them fundraise.

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Create a Fairer Society

By identifying under-represented founders you're level the playing field for anyone to success based on merit independent from their social or ethnic background.

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Help Friends Get Funded

Help your friends who are neck-deep in their startups get the funding they need to succeed.

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Grow Your Personal Brand

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Join as a Scout at Your University

Available Programs

Startup Investor?

Tsinghua University is a powerhouse of innovation, and we offer investors the opportunity to gain first access to startup and individual dealflow from this renowned institution. Our platform is designed to make it easy for you to discover the most promising opportunities.

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Scout Programs in Other Global Startup Hubs

Podcaster

Do you interview founders & startups? Take your conversation insights to the next level by scouting your favourite podcast guests.

Scout founders you interview →

Co-Working Space Organiser

Do you help run a co-working space as an organiser or a greeter? Do you come across interesting entrepreneurs and startups?

Scout startups you sit next to→

Event Organiser

Do you organise an event, conference, or trade show? Help your founder attendees get discovered.

Scout startups at your event →

Student

Are you active in the entrepreneurship club at your college? Doing an MBA? Or are you a PHD student at a technical university? Help your fellow students get funded.

Scout startups at your university →

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