Programme guide · 2026

Shanghai innovation vouchers: offset R&D, testing and IP costs

Shanghai's innovation voucher (科技创新券) programme lets eligible SMEs pay for specified science and technology services with vouchers instead of cash. It is smaller than HNTE or SRDI, but it is comparatively quick and useful for companies that buy testing, design or IP services.

Information only. Quotas, service catalogues and deadlines change every year; confirm with the Shanghai Science and Technology Commission (stcsm.sh.gov.cn) and the voucher platform. We do not apply on your behalf.

What it covers

The voucher catalogue typically includes services such as:

Testing, inspection and analysis.
R&D design, prototyping and pilot production support.
Scientific and technical information, data and software services.
Intellectual property search, analysis and strategy services.
Some technology transfer and expert services.

Services must normally be purchased from providers registered on the official platform; private arrangements with non-registered providers may not qualify.

Who can apply

Small and medium-sized enterprises registered in Shanghai with independent legal personality.
Usually no major tax, credit or safety violations; some years add innovation indicators.
Foreign-invested companies registered locally are generally treated like domestic SMEs, unless the annual notice says otherwise.

How the voucher works

Apply on the Shanghai innovation voucher platform and get a quota (annual, capped).
Choose a registered service provider and agree the scope.
Use the voucher for the agreed services; keep contracts, invoices and deliverables.
The provider redeems the voucher; you pay the remainder, if any.

The voucher usually covers a share of the cost rather than 100%, and unused quotas expire. Treat it as a discount on services you were going to buy anyway.

Practical tips

Check whether your existing suppliers are registered before designing a project around them.
Bundle small testing/IP purchases into one project to stay above minimum thresholds.
Keep documentation consistent with your R&D ledger — it also helps HNTE and SRDI applications.
Do not buy services you do not need; the voucher is not a cash grant.

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See also: all programme guides · HNTE · SRDI

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