The "China Digital Valley: Future Intelligent Port" is located in Shangcheng district, Hangzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/IC]

Shangcheng district in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, released a policy package on March 3 to support the development of one-person companies in artificial intelligence, aiming to build a leading hub for such startups.

The policy, titled "Measures to Support the Development of AI One-Person Company Communities in Shangcheng District," is the first district-level initiative of its kind in Zhejiang. It outlines a full-cycle support system covering workspace, resources, financing, application scenarios, and talent.

The district plans to establish 10 communities for one-person companies in 2026, cultivate 100 artificial intelligence firms, and attract 1,000 entrepreneurs. It will also roll out 100 application scenarios and 100 branded events to support business development.

To address key challenges faced by early-stage entrepreneurs, Shangcheng will allocate 100 million yuan ($14.51 million) annually for targeted support. More than 20,000 square meters of ready-to-use office space will be provided, along with subsidized workstations for up to three years. Housing support will also be offered through designated apartments and talent hostels with tiered rental incentives.

The policy introduces a shared resource model that provides access to artificial intelligence tools, including computing power, models, and development platforms. Eligible startups will receive free accounts with usage quotas.

A fund totaling 1 billion yuan will focus on early-stage and hard-technology projects. The district will also open up urban application scenarios in consumption, culture and tourism, public services, and governance to support technology testing and commercialization.

In addition, Shangcheng will introduce a talent evaluation program for founders of one-person companies, offering annual awards of up to 200,000 yuan and priority access to municipal-level high-level talent recognition.