Xiong'an: An emerging hub of innovation, livability

A large number of talented people in their fields have chosen Xiong'an and, like Zhang, have settled in the area to pursue their dreams, according to the administrative committee of Xiong'an.

With the attraction of talent, Xiong'an is focused on becoming an innovation hub and entrepreneurship hot spot of the new era. "A series of high-level innovation platforms have been established to cover all stages from research and development to commercialization," said Zhang Guohua, top official of the new area.

According to Zhang, Xiong'an has integrated into Beijing's high-level talent hub, attracted leading enterprises, key figures, and innovation teams, established an alliance for relocated universities, set up a special fund for talent, and implemented the Sixteen Xiong Talents Policies.

Among the 16 policies is a measure to attract top global talent for key development industries such as new-generation information technology, modern life sciences and biotechnology, new materials, aerospace information, green energy, and fintech. To work in Xiong'an, top scientists will be offered with 20 to 50 million yuan in research funding and 3 million yuan in living allowances, plus spacious accommodations of no less than 200 square meters.

"Such benefits are unmatched by other cities," Zhang Zequn, the PhD candidate, said.

While various policies are offered to attract new talent to Xiong'an, the original residents of the area, which covers Anxin, Rongcheng and Xiongxian counties, have not been forgotten.

According to Zhang Guohua, more than 100,000 local people are gradually transitioning from rural to urban life.

"We are creating a city that's friendly for people of all ages, constructing a series of wonderful city scenes, building 15-minute living circles, and making a high-quality living environment a distinct feature of Xiong'an," he said.

With its dual focus on innovation and livability, Xiong'an is poised to redefine urban development in China.