BFI Family Entrepreneurship Programme in Shenzhen: Transforming Family Businesses Through AI and Innovation

The BFI@SMU Family Entrepreneurship Programme took place from July 9 to 11, 2025, in Shenzhen, China, a city known for its global leadership in technology, innovation, and economic growth. The event brought together nearly 30 family business leaders and next-generation entrepreneurs from Singapore, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Participants gained valuable insights into the dynamic tech ecosystem of the Greater Bay Area, fostering meaningful discussions on innovation, business growth, and cross-border collaboration.

Innovation and AI in Focus

The programme began with an engaging session on digital transformation, led by Associate Professor Geng Xuesong from Singapore Management University. Participants examined how artificial intelligence, and digital technologies can boost innovation, improve customer experiences, and provide a competitive edge for their businesses. The session included practical frameworks for implementing digital strategies and managing AI-driven innovation, equipping family enterprises with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly fast-paced technological landscape.

Following that, Professor Chen Jin, of the School of Economics and Management and the Director of the Research Centre for Technological Innovation at Tsinghua University, revealed how some of China's most innovative companies, such as ByteDance, DeepSeek, and Unitree Robotics, utilise proactive capabilities to gain a unique competitive advantage and achieve remarkable business success. Participants learned about their rapid and disruptive innovation strategies, as well as ways to replicate their success.

Immersive Company Visits with Industry Leaders

Thanks to the dedicated coordination and support of Mr. Bai Jiangong, Chairman of Linoya Group, participants were afforded the distinguished opportunity to explore the Group’s industrial park and engage with esteemed Chinese enterprises, including Huawei, BYD, Tencent, DJI, and Anke. These visits provided invaluable insights into the technological prowess, strategic vision, and global aspirations that underpin China’s leading companies.

Professor Geng adeptly distilled academic frameworks into actionable business insights, facilitating the connection of various components within the industry. His analysis encompassed key topics, including DJI's innovation laboratories, Tencent's digital ecosystem, BYD's approach to vertical integration, and Huawei's strengths in connectivity and computing. Furthermore, he highlighted Linoya's substantial synergies across multiple industries. Through this lens, he framed our observations around key themes of consumer-centrism, global competitiveness, and the pursuit of long-term value creation through innovation and digital transformation.

At SZ DJI Technology Co., Ltd., a global leader in drone and video recording technology, participants engaged directly with company leaders about innovative developments applicable to various industries and sustainability initiatives.

Visits to Linoya Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. and Anke High-Tech Co. enhanced the understanding of advanced electronics manufacturing and strategic corporate development.

Participants also explored Huawei Technologies and BYD Auto—two major companies that are shaping Shenzhen's reputation for technological excellence and green innovation. Huawei’s emphasis on computing and connectivity, innovation in digital infrastructure, and tailored solutions for various market sectors highlighted the company’s role in the global tech ecosystem. Meanwhile, BYD’s advancements in electric vehicles and other transportation methods showcased the future of sustainable mobility.

The group toured Tencent Holdings Ltd., one of the world’s largest technology conglomerates, engaging in discussions on digital platforms, ecosystem building, and global expansion strategies.

Visiting the Qianhai Authority Department offered participants a valuable opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the Chinese government’s initiatives and plans for the Greater Bay Area. Additionally, participants learned about Hong Kong’s family office industry and the comparison of the tax systems in Hong Kong and Singapore, drawing on insights from their visit to PwC. They deepened their understanding of global capital markets and explored Hong Kong's unique role as a "super connector."

This immersive study tour expanded participants' international perspectives and enhanced their understanding of the critical role the Greater Bay Area plays in the digital economy and emerging industries. By engaging directly with industry leaders, participants gained a thorough understanding of the region's innovation ecosystem, corporate transformation strategies, and potential future collaboration models.

Networking, Reflections, and Closing

The programme culminated in a panel discussion and networking session hosted by PwC China, where experts and participants discussed how the rising generation can navigate the delicate balance between preserving legacy and embracing change.

The closing dinner provided an opportunity for reflection and celebration, as certificates were awarded and participants’ commitments to driving innovation within their organisations and their family legacies were reaffirmed.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to all speakers, hosts, and participants for their invaluable contributions to the success of the 2025 Family Entrepreneurship Programme in Shenzhen. Together, we are fostering new opportunities at the convergence of family enterprise, technology, and global business innovation.