Pudong New Area released application guidelines for a 2026 special funding program to promote high-quality development in the artificial intelligence industry, focusing on large AI models, intelligent agents, and other emerging AI technologies.

The program supports eligible enterprises in developing and applying vertical large models and representative AI applications through platform-based access or private deployment, depending on the enterprise's specific needs.

Eligibility

Applicants must be enterprises with projects implemented in Pudong, where the primary benefits are generated within the district. Projects must meet the program's requirements and align with Pudong's industrial development priorities.

The large AI models used by applicants must have completed at least one of the following procedures, as stipulated by China's Interim Measures for the Management of Generative Artificial Intelligence Services: filing for generative AI services, registration of generative AI services, or algorithm filing for deep synthesis services.

Applicants must also ensure workplace safety in their business operations.

Eligible Expenses

The program covers eligible expenses incurred between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2025, including:

• Licensing fees for large AI models, intelligent agents, and other emerging AI technology products;
• Customized development of large-model and intelligent-agent applications;
• Model usage fees, including charges based on tokens processed; 
• Intelligent-agent services.

The specific level of financial support is subject to the program's applicable requirements.

Application Requirements

Projects that have already received funding from other national, Shanghai municipal or district-level government fiscal programs are not eligible.

Applicants must ensure that all submitted materials are authentic, complete, and compliant, and contain no classified information.

Application Procedure and Deadline

Applications were submitted online through the "Puyida" Pudong New Area Enterprise Policy Service Platform (https://pyd.pudong.gov.cn).

The online application system was open from 10 am on Aug 10 to 4 pm on Aug 31, 2026.

Source: Pudong New Area Commission of Science and Technology and Economy