On September 9, Dongguan unveiled its "Dream Builder Plan", a package of ten policies designed to support young talent nationwide in pursuing internships, careers, and startups in the city. From subsidies and free housing to rent-free office space and multimillion-yuan venture funding, the plan offers a full chain of support covering internship, entrepreneurship, and long-term settlement. 

The initiative lowers barriers and provides resources so that aspiring youth can dare to dream, dare to try, and dare to succeed. Across the city, slogans like "No rent, only dreams" and "We pay for innovation so you don't have to worry about entrepreneurship" are lighting up landmark buildings, sending a clear message: every dreamer matters in Dongguan. 

01 Making job hunting easier        

For students eager to gain industry experience, Dongguan will open no fewer than 5,000 high-quality internship positions each year through partnerships with leading enterprises, research institutes, and public institutions. Interns will receive a monthly subsidy of RMB 1,000, up to a maximum of RMB 3,000. 

To ease the pressure of job-hunting, non-local graduates seeking work or launching startups in Dongguan are also entitled to seven days of free accommodation, extendable to 15 days for those advancing to final interviews or with a confirmed business plan. 

Young people with concrete entrepreneurial ambitions can further access free training courses, ranging from startup awareness to practical, industry-specific programs, turning aspiration into capability. 

02 Backing for startups        

For startups ready to take root, Dongguan promises a "zero-cost entrepreneurship community." Qualified teams and companies will enjoy tiered rent-free space. 

1️⃣ Teams with fewer than 5 people can use free office stations or up to 50㎡ of space in the first year. 

2️⃣ Teams of 5-20 people can receive up to 300㎡ rent-free in the first year. 

3️⃣ Larger teams of 20 or more may qualify for up to 500㎡ rent-free in the first year. 

In years two and three, all categories enjoy rent at 50% and 70% of market rates, respectively. 

Meanwhile, housing worries are also addressed. Eligible talent in key industries can apply for subsidized rental apartments, with the same "three-year discount" structure: first year free, second year half price, third year 30% off. These residences come with professional services including policy guidance, networking opportunities, and training. 

Funding support is equally strong. Qualified young entrepreneurs founding startups in Dongguan can receive a one-time grant of RMB 10,000. Individuals can also apply for entrepreneurship loans of up to RMB 500,000, while small and micro-enterprises may secure loans up to RMB 5 million, with interest subsidies available. 

For projects recognized at top national or Greater Bay Area innovation competitions, Dongguan goes further, offering up to RMB 10 million in venture capital support. Winning teams that settle in the city may also be awarded up to RMB 1 million in funding rewards. 

03 Reducing risks, strengthening connections       

Dongguan's openness is also reflected in its support for young entrepreneurs from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, each of whom may receive an additional RMB 10,000 subsidy on top of existing grants. 

The city also provides matchmaking platforms, linking startups with industry resources, mentors, investors, and supply chains. 

Importantly, the plan incorporates "failure tolerance" measures. Young entrepreneurs facing setbacks can access timely employment assistance, social insurance, and financial aid. For those with credit issues caused by failed ventures, Dongguan will facilitate credit repair in line with national regulations, helping them regain confidence and restart. 

04 A city of opportunity and warmth        

As one of China’s most dynamic manufacturing and trade hubs, Dongguan is home to trillion-yuan industrial clusters in electronics, machinery, new materials, and food & beverages. For decades, Dongguan has been a place where millions of dreamers found their path. Today, with nearly 1.9 million market entities, a thriving manufacturing base, and a young population with an average age of 33, it remains one of the most dynamic cities in China. 

"Dongguan has the platforms for you to thrive, the safeguards for you to settle, and the warmth to make you stay," the announcement declared. With sincerity and ambition, the city is extending an invitation. If you have dreams, come to Dongguan. Here, the city itself becomes your partner in building a brighter future.