Lixia district strengthened its innovation ecosystem in 2025 by adding 991 technology-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), cultivating 191 high-quality enterprises, and establishing one provincial-level concept validation center. The district's technical contract turnover exceeded 15 billion yuan ($2.18 billion), marking a milestone in innovation-driven growth.

Building on this, Lixia has unveiled a comprehensive action plan for 2026 aimed at further upgrading its innovation and entrepreneurship landscape. The district plans to improve its talent incubation framework and speed up the development of major innovation carriers, including the Haiyou sci-tech block and the CBD innovation cluster. High-level talent programs will be introduced to turn digital resources into digital assets, while partnerships with leading investment funds will strengthen support for research commercialization.

Efforts will also focus on establishing proof-of-concept platforms and expanding three municipal-level incubators. The district aims to increase its annual technical contract turnover to more than 18 billion yuan.

University–local collaboration will be deepened through partnerships with institutions such as Shandong University and Qilu University of Technology. Plans include building joint innovation centers, research institutes, and technology transfer platforms, particularly in the areas of artificial intelligence and large-model applications. By aligning academic strengths with industrial demand, Lixia aims to speed up the commercialization of scientific achievements and introduce talent policies to attract high-level professionals.

At the same time, enterprise demand will guide innovation more decisively. By focusing on the needs of leading companies, the district will support enterprises along key industry value chains and expand industry–university–research collaboration. Major firms will be encouraged to release real-world application scenarios and participate in technology matchmaking events to speed up technology transfer and industrialization.