On the afternoon of August 16, the Hunan Provincial Department of Industry and Information Technology made public a list of the province's third batch of innovation-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), or the former municipal "little giant" firms. The "little giant" firms represent the novel elites of SMEs that specialize in niche markets, boast cutting-edge technologies and show great potential. A total of 455 enterprises in the province were shortlisted, 225 of which were from Changsha.

To date, Changsha has a total of 184 national "little giant" firms, 1,127 SMEs that specialize in niche sectors, or the former provincial "little giant" firms, and 1,899 innovation-oriented SMEs (including those on the list). The figures are at the forefront of cities in central China.

Changsha has established a model featuring practical funds, policy support and sincere assistance to help SMEs grow into "little giant" firms healthily. The total amount of the city's R&D rewards and subsidies has increased significantly. A municipal system of supporting policies has taken shape. "Little giant" firms enjoy priority in terms of investment and financing, public service training, technological innovation, digital empowerment, brand promotion, and market exhibitions.

Source: en.changsha.gov.cn