Jiangyan Economic Development Zone has introduced a TIL (tumor-infiltrating lymphocyte) cell therapy project through an innovative dual-support mechanism combining funding and investment, as well as a "reverse enclave" model. The move injects fresh momentum into the zone's efforts to foster future-oriented industries.
Jiangyan EDZ introduces a TIL cell therapy project through an innovative dual-support mechanism combining funding and investment, as well as a "reverse enclave" model. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_d6cb78f80c03]
TIL therapy represents a state-of-the-art cancer immunotherapy that entails the extraction of lymphocytes from a patient's tumor, followed by in vitro expansion, with the subsequent reinfusion aimed at enhancing the body's anti-tumor immune response. Given that this therapy requires the clinical resources available at top hospitals in Shanghai, the project team initially proposed conducting their R&D operations in that location.
In response, Jiangyan EDZ introduced a "reverse enclave" strategy: while the R&D center would be located in Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park in Shanghai, the company registration, intellectual property, and manufacturing base would be established in Jiangyan. This model enabled the project to tap into Shanghai's medical ecosystem while anchoring its industrial value in Jiangyan.
Recognizing the high-risk, capital-intensive nature of early-stage tech ventures, the zone partnered with the Yangtze River Delta National Technology Innovation Center to adopt a hybrid "grant + investment" support model. The TIL project, with a total investment of 40.2 million yuan ($5.6 million) and a two-year development timeline, received funding and equity backing from the zone's platform companies and service centers. Funding is released in phases based on milestone achievements, and upon success, government-backed funds may either be converted into equity or repaid with interest.
In June 2023, Jiangyan EDZ implemented the Administrative Measures for Sci-Tech Innovation Grant-Investment Projects, becoming the first zone in Taizhou to establish a formal mechanism aimed at supporting high-tech ventures. This year, the zone further upgraded its policies, offering benefits such as talent apartments, ready-to-use manufacturing space, and priority nomination for innovation and entrepreneurship talent programs.
So far, three "grant + investment" projects have landed in the zone, with two selected as municipal-level key innovation projects and five individuals admitted into provincial and municipal talent plans.
Looking ahead, Jiangyan EDZ will focus on developing into a leading precision manufacturing hub in the Yangtze River Delta region. The zone intends to refine its hybrid investment model further, attracting a greater influx of high-end talent and advanced technology projects from both domestic and international markets. This is set to establish itself as a hub for scientific innovation and commercialization, creating a robust foundation for sustainable, high-quality development.
An aerial view of Jiangyan EDZ. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_d6cb78f80c03]