Shanghai's Yangpu district has launched a one-year support program effective May 13, 2026, to foster one-person companies as part of the city's "artificial intelligence plus" initiative.

An OPC is an AI-driven business built around a single founder who leverages the technology as a virtual team to independently manage the entire business cycle, typically with fewer than 10 people, according to the "Government Online-Offline Shanghai" platform.

The following are the key support measures:

Affordable housing

OPC founders participating in innovation and entrepreneurship competitions are eligible for free short-term accommodation of up to five days per stay, twice a year. For longer stays, eligible founders can lease talent apartments on Fuxing Island for as low as 1,000 yuan (about $150) per month. Newly recruited PhD founders are entitled to two years of complimentary housing.

AI & technology resources

OPC-focused communities are eligible for up to 20 million yuan in support to provide founders with AI toolkits, computing credits, and industry-specific AI agents.

Workspace

OPC startups located in designated communities are offered free workspace in the first year, with waived property management fees.

One-stop government services

OPC startups can access one-stop services for business registration, along with free tax agency and bookkeeping services, via the "Government Online-Offline Shanghai" platform

(https://zwdt.sh.gov.cn/qykj/shell_oc_yp_zq/home/artificial-intelligence-zone/index).

Growth support

The program also offers mentorship and financial support, along with performance-based incentives. OPC enterprises that win the Shanghai Intellectual Property Innovation Award are eligible for a one-off 100,000-yuan grant. Promising OPC ventures will also receive support to expand into overseas markets.

Source: Yangpu District People's Government