Dexterous Robotic Hands, Smart Agriculture and More: Young Innovators Take on New Challenges in Leaders In Future Tech+

BEIJING, Oct. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As industries continue to evolve and new technologies emerge, more young people are bringing their ideas to the real world and driving innovation. Since its launch, Leaders In Future Tech+ has visited 10 cities across China and held 15 selection events, narrowing down nearly 500 project applications to 100 teams with an average age of just 28. Now gathered in Nanjing, these young innovators are exploring ways to turn new technologies into business opportunities and bring their ideas into industry.

The second episode follows 19 young innovators who stood out in the earlier selection rounds as they take on new challenges. The programme continues its "1+7" venture capital documentary and livestream format, featuring two main sessions: "Youth Innovation Face-to-Face" and "Youth Innovation Open Mic". Leading scientists, industry experts and investors join the programme as mentors and evaluators, helping connect young innovators with resources from research, business and investment.

In the first challenge, "Youth Innovation Face-to-Face", contestants choose from seven separate investment discussion rooms, each hosted by two mentors. They take part in three rounds of group discussions, after which the mentors select one contestant for a three-minute, one-on-one conversation. Following this process, seven innovators advance to "Youth Innovation Open Mic". There, 14 experts and investors, together with 50 industry representatives, assess the contestants. The top four will secure a place at the Youth Innovation Carnival.

The seven contestants represent a wide range of emerging technologies, including optoelectronic sensing, smart water management, functional materials for agriculture, soft robotic hands inspired by human movement, AI content detection, intelligent acoustics and chip cooling. Some focus on tackling difficult technical problems, while others concentrate on bringing new technologies into practical use. Together, they show how young Chinese innovators are working to meet real industry needs.

More than a competition, Leaders In Future Tech+ aims to connect talent, technology, capital and industry. Its mentors offer advice on technical development and business planning, while recognising the determination and creativity of young entrepreneurs. Rather than judging projects only by their current commercial value, the programme also considers their potential for long-term growth.

Tune in to CCTV-4 and CMG Mobile on Saturday, October 10, at 5:30 p.m. (UTC+8) to watch the second episode of Leaders In Future Tech+ and follow the next steps of China's young innovators.

SOURCE CMG