Green Transition

Danish Green-Tech Startups Explore Opportunities in Shanghai

Green Transition

Danish Green-Tech Startups Explore Opportunities in Shanghai

ICDK Shanghai and CLEAN collaborate to accelerate Danish sustainability innovations in China

Shanghai, one of the world’s most dynamic innovation hubs, is rapidly becoming a powerhouse for green technology. With China’s ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 7–10% by 2035 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, the country is accelerating its green transition, creating vast opportunities for international startups.
Against this backdrop, Innovation Centre Denmark Shanghai, in collaboration with CLEAN, recently welcomed three Danish startups - Lapee, Sabbia, and TEGnology - to explore their potential in one of the world’s largest consumer markets. Through the Innovation Camp, a one-week program, these startups gained hands-on experience in navigating the Chinese market, meeting potential partners, and adapting their solutions to local demands.

China’s Green Ambitions: A Market Full of Potential

China is not only home to one of the most rapidly evolving innovation ecosystems but is also becoming a leader in green innovation. The country’s commitment to sustainability is driving investments in clean technologies, making it an ideal market for Danish startups with green solutions.

"It is great to be able to show some of the Danish companies with sustainable, green technologies the opportunities on the Chinese market. Every time we come to China, we see a lot of new potential. There is so much going on here.“ says Joan Juul, CLEAN Cluster, Denmark

The Innovation Camp is designed to give Danish startups a head start in Shanghai’s innovation ecosystem. Over the course of a week, Lapee, TEGnology, and Sabbia participated in workshops, meetings with potential suppliers and partners, and gained insights into the regulatory landscape.

The Innovation Camp: A Hands-On Experience

"I think it is a great opportunity to discover market opportunities. Navigating the market in China was extremely difficult, so having a frame that brings us some connections and meetings is extremely helpful.“ says Gina Périer, CEO and Founder, Lapee

The program also included pitch sessions at S-Tron, one of Asia’s leading tech forums, where the startups presented their solutions to investors and industry experts.

"It has been an amazing opportunity to explore a foreign market for us. We are thankful to ICDK for creating a packed and rich program for us to get the most out of our time here.“ says Lukas Moravek, CEO and Co-Founder, Sabbia

A Platform for Growth and Partnerships

For Hao Yin, CEO and Founder of TEGnology, the Innovation Camp provided more than just market exposure it offered strategic connections and credibility in a market where government endorsement is crucial.

„The endorsement and the support from ICDK and the Danish government means a lot for a start-up like us in a country where the government is more visible and the tempo is much higher.“ says Hao Yin, CEO and Founder, TEGnology

Hao also emphasized how the camp saved his team time and energy by connecting them directly with local partners and stakeholders

Looking Ahead:

More Opportunities for Danish Startups

ICDK Shanghai, with its expertise in green transition and life sciences, is committed to creating more opportunities for Danish startups to explore China’s market. Future Innovation Camps will continue to support startups in testing their potential and building partnerships in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to discover how ICDK Shanghai can support your research or startup in China.