In the first half of 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announced the second batch of 111 key pilot platforms under cultivation, recognized the first batch of 14 excellence-level and 402 standard-level technology enterprise incubators, marking that China's gradient cultivation system for manufacturing pilot platforms and technology enterprise incubators has taken basic shape. Currently, a national pilot service network has been established, comprising 21 national-level manufacturing pilot platforms, 331 key cultivated platforms, and more than 1800 reserve platforms, providing solid platform support for technology transfer and industrialization.

Pilot testing is a critical step in moving科技成果 from the lab to the production line, yet it has long been a weak link in China's innovation chain. The second batch of key pilot platforms released this time focuses on priority areas such as next-generation information technology, high-end equipment, new materials, and biomedicine. Equipped with advanced process validation equipment and professional technical teams, these platforms offer full-chain services including concept verification, process scale-up, and product testing for universities, research institutes, and enterprises. 14 Excellence-level incubators have reached domestic leadership levels in incubation capabilities, resource integration, and industry connections, serving as "accelerators" for cultivating tech-driven companies.

To bridge the "last mile" of technology transfer, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is accelerating pilot reforms on "use-first, pay-later" to lower the barriers and costs for SMEs in adopting university and research institute innovations. Meanwhile, construction of the national unified technology trading service platform is advancing rapidly, leveraging digital solutions to achieve precise matching of technology supply and demand, transparent and standardized transaction processes, and effective intellectual property protection—boosting efficiency in commercializing scientific and technological achievements.

Industry experts believe that the tiered cultivation of pilot platforms and incubators has addressed China's critical gap in transitioning from "strong in technology" to "strong in industry." The deployment of over 1800 reserve platforms reflects a systematic approach of "reserving, cultivating, and upgrading," ensuring that pilot services grow in sync with industrial development needs. With the implementation of reforms such as "use first, pay later," researchers and enterprises are expected to be significantly more motivated to commercialize their innovations, turning "sleeping" lab technologies into real-world productivity and injecting sustained momentum into high-quality manufacturing growth in China.