The 17th Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) Entrepreneurs (Wuhan) Conference took place in Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China, or OVC) on Nov 15, attracting over 1,500 HUST alumni and representatives from across China.

During the event, agreements for 36 projects involving investments and collaborations by HUST alumni enterprises were signed, amounting to a total of 15 billion yuan ($2.1 billion). Eight of the projects, with an investment exceeding 8 billion yuan, will be based in OVC.

The 17th Huazhong University of Science and Technology Entrepreneurs (Wuhan) Conference kicks off in OVC. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

The projects landing in OVC include the national headquarters of Huayun Intelligence and the Huaweike Flexible Intelligent Sensing R&D and Pilot Production Base. These projects focus on cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and integrated circuits, aiming to develop next-generation information technologies like optical fibers, chips, screens, terminals, and networks.

HUST has a longstanding partnership with OVC, having been rooted there for over 70 years. The university has cultivated over 800,000 graduates, with more than 100,000 alumni residing in OVC. Among the listed companies in the zone, 11, including Guide Infrared, HGTECH, and Raycus Laser, are HUST-affiliated.

Huang Li, chairman of Guide Infrared, noted that he and his family are HUST graduates, and the entrepreneurial spirit of HUST has continuously inspired his ventures in OVC. He hopes more HUST students will contribute to the development of OVC, the nation and society.

You Zheng, president of HUST, emphasized the university's commitment to integrating into the development of OVC, aiming to build a world-class university and create a world optics valley, thus supporting the growth of future industries and strategic emerging sectors in Hubei.