Shenzhen: From Fishing Village to Tech Powerhouse

General Description

This Global Seminar in Shenzhen explores innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology commercialization in “China’s Silicon Valley.” Students will analyze how policy, culture, and markets shape Shenzhen’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through lectures, site visits, and team projects with local peers. The program blends academic rigor with experiential learning, providing both theoretical insights and practical exposure to one of the world’s fastest-growing tech hubs.

Upon completion of the program, students are able to:

1. Analyze how government, culture, and markets shape entrepreneurship in Shenzhen.
2. Apply institutional theory and design thinking frameworks to real-world ventures.
3. Collaborate with local Shenzhen students in cross-cultural entrepreneurial teams.
4. Gain practical experience through site visits, workshops, and startup strategy projects.
5. Build professional networks with entrepreneurs, accelerators, and investors in China.

Living and Travel Conditions

Students will stay in comfortable, modern housing in Shenzhen’s Nanshan District, close to INNOX Academy and many of the city’s innovation hubs. The neighborhood is lively and full of local restaurants, cafés, and shops, giving students plenty of opportunities to explore daily life in Shenzhen. Transportation around the city will mostly be by metro—fast, clean, and easy to navigate—along with some group buses for company visits. Meals will be a mix of group dinners, local food experiences, and independent dining, so students can try everything from famous Cantonese dishes to Shenzhen’s street food. The summer weather is hot and humid, but evenings often cool down, and students will have the chance to enjoy both the modern city atmosphere and cultural excursions like visits to art villages and museums.

Faculty

Professor Charles Eesley is a Professor of Management Science & Engineering and Co-Director of the Stanford Technology Ventures Program. His research focuses on high-tech entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and the role of institutions in global venture creation. He has extensive experience leading overseas programs, including Stanford BOSP in Hong Kong (2025) and at the Stanford Center at Peking University, as well as fieldwork across China and Asia.

Prerequisites and Expectations 

Open to undergraduates from all majors with an interest in entrepreneurship, innovation, or global business. No prior coursework is required, but students are expected to actively engage in pre-program sessions, lectures, company visits, and group startup projects. Intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and willingness to participate in cross-cultural teamwork are essential for success.

Grading Basis

Letter Grade