Changshu builds bridges for global entrepreneurs

Changshu, a county-level city in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, is fast becoming a magnet for international talent and technology ventures. Located in the vibrant Yangtze River Delta region, it offers a unique model of growth that is both sustainable and inclusive. With a dynamic blend of ancient culture and cutting-edge innovation, the city is attracting a new generation of global pioneers.

The Ivy International Talent Port in Changshu, a county-level city in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, Aug. 26, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Changshu's strategy goes beyond attracting large corporations. Instead it focuses on cultivating a rich soil, where small and medium-sized enterprises and startups can thrive. This approach creates a more diverse, resilient and long-term economic landscape. 

Andreas Guenter Hester from Germany, vice president of SIGAS Measurement Engineering Corp., has witnessed this evolution, manifested by a significant shift in policy toward smaller enterprises. "They see that the smaller companies are stable," he said while explaining how a diverse ecosystem of smaller enterprises creates a robust employment foundation. 

Andreas Guenter Hester shares his experience of working and living in Changshu, a county-level city in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, Aug. 26, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Having arrived 16 years ago with his Chinese partner, he started out in a small room, embodying the true spirit of a startup. His company, now a successful bridge connecting Chinese innovation to European markets, exemplifies Changshu's support for grassroots ventures to go global.

The city provides crucial early-stage support, including talent programs, office space, and streamlined administrative guidance. This is all geared toward helping international entrepreneurs navigate the initial phases of setting up in China. This supportive environment is successfully attracting a new wave of highly skilled international professionals who contribute to its high-tech sectors. 

David Simon Hartmann from Germany, a former global senior vice president at materials giant Bayer Kavestro, chose Changshu in 2020 to launch his venture, Helio Additive. It develops revolutionary 3D printing software.

David Simon Hartmann displays a product manufactured by his company in Changshu, a county-level city in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, Aug. 26, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

He said that they initially considered Silicon Valley and Singapore. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic made international travel difficult, a new suggestion changed their course. The recommendation came from Polymaker, a leading 3D printing firm with which Hartmann had co-developed the initial business idea in 2019.

His team of over 20 senior engineers and scientists is a blend of top Chinese and international talent from Italy, the United States and the United Kingdom. Hartmann described this mix as "kind of the best of both worlds," which allows them to leverage global expertise without leaving Changshu.

Employees of Helio Additive operate a 3D printing machine in Changshu, a county-level city in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, Aug. 26, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

A machine manufactures a product through the 3D printing process at Helio Additive in Changshu, a county-level city in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, Aug. 26, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn]

Beyond work, Changshu offers a high quality of life that surprises many newcomers. "We have an amazing standard of life here in Changshu," Hartmann noted. "You can get great food. You can get great restaurants. We have great nature. I spent the whole weekend hiking on Mount Yu this weekend." The focus in Changshu extends beyond business development to creating a truly livable environment for talent. 

While language remains a challenge for some, the city's inclusive atmosphere proves invaluable. "People here are very positive and willing to help communicate," Hester observed. Both he and Hartmann have embraced Chinese language study, recognizing its vital role in deepening cultural understanding and business integration. 

Hester suggested that enhanced services connecting foreigners with language tutors would be highly beneficial. Having become proficient in the language through his own efforts and already excelling in business here, he believes that, to better enable the next generation of global professionals within the ecosystem, "it would be helpful if the city could offer this connection." The purpose of providing this support and facilitating such contacts at the municipal level is to further strengthen Changshu's growing international business appeal.