About
Us

Our Mission

Being the bridge between Spain, Latin America and now Europe – Xiji is not only one of the leading incubators but also the only institution offering a 6-month world-class entrepreneurial program that brings international founders to Shanghai. From nurturing their idea, to fine tuning the prototype, to bridging the gap between exposing them to customers and beyond – we amplify their impact with hands-on guidance, extensive network, and support.

We are here to support you. Our program is designed in a way to provide the technical infrastructure and support system to thrive in emerging markets and China’s tech ecosystem.

SECRET SAUCE

XIJI´S SECRET SAUCE

Guidance

We provide founders with technical guidance, key tech connections, and help navigate cultural and language barriers through Chinese language courses and intercultural workshops. Our 16 modules cover essential topics like entrepreneurship, finance, prototyping, legal aspects, IP, the Chinese market, and regional support.

Network

Growth requires learning from experienced individuals. Xiji Incubator offers over 100 mentors from various sectors, a network of 3000 contacts in Spain and China, and 50+ corporate partners. Our mentors provide tailored workshops and one-on-one sessions, and our network gives founders exclusive access to pitch at world-class events.

Support

To address resource challenges for early founders, we provide legal connections, business coaching, and a state-of-the-art office at Tongji University Campus in Shanghai.

Modules

Incubated startups

Experienced mentors

TEAM

Meet Our team

Xavier Ferré

Xavier Ferré

UPM RECTOR'S DELEGATE FOR ASIA

Xavier holds an MSc and PhD in Computer Science. He is associate professor at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), acting as Rector’s Delegate for Asia at UPM from 2021 and Co-Director of the Sino-Spanish Campus at Tongji University, Shanghai (China). His research activity is linked to the UPM Center for Biomedical Technology, in its Active Ageing Lab, where he researches on usability and UX in mobile applications, technology adoption and UX for older users, and integration of usability practices into software development.

He teaches courses on Human-Computer Interaction, Software Engineering, and Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship, both at UPM and Tongji University.He has carried out research stays at the Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL) – University of Maryland, at the European Laboratory for Particle Physics (CERN), and at Tongji University, where he was appointed as High-End Foreign Expert by the Chinese government in the period 2015-2017.

He has more than 10 years experience on the innovation ecosystem in China and the greater Asia-Pacific area, allowing him to be mentor during these years to numerous startups with an interest in emerging markets, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. In his role as Rector’s Delegate for Asia at UPM he is responsible for the expansion of Xiji Incubator activities, in its mission to offer support to entrepreneurs at different stages and from different partners.

Pablo Rabadán

Pablo Rabadán

DIRECTOR AT XIJI

Pablo Rabadán is the Director of Xiji Incubator in Shanghai, a global ally for the creation of venture bridges between Spain, LatAm, and China. He is also a Startup Mentor at Acelera Startups, an Impact Hub x Mentor Day JV and the largest acceleration program in Spain. Pablo has collaborated with companies like Capgemini (Frog) and Mormedi, and helped global leaders such as Airbus, IKEA, and Siemens launch new products and services.

He holds two Master’s Degrees, one in Organization Engineering and another in International Leadership, with studies in joint programs at MIT and Cambridge University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Design Engineering from the Technical University of Madrid.

As a TEDx speaker in Shanghai, he contributed to the global discourse on purpose and entrepreneurship, drawing from his journey with diabetes.

Claudio Feijoo

Claudio Feijoo

UPM HEAD OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Claudio Feijóo holds an MSc and PhD in Telecommunication Engineering and an MSc in Quantitative Economics. He is full professor at the Technical University of Madrid (UPM) where he is the Director for Entrepreneurship, leading programs on education, launch and acceleration of tech-based startups and spin-offs. At academia, he teaches on Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship and pursues research on the future socio-economic impact of emerging technologies. Currently, he is also the Executive Secretary of MetaRed X España, an initiative to strengthen university entrepreneurship support units, as well as the responsible of two EU-wide projects on entrepreneurship: EELISA Unfolds (part of EELISA European University and supported by EIT Digital) and Clean Cities ClimAccelerator (part of EIT Climate). From 2014 to 2020, his key responsibility was to reach agreements for cooperation and launch joint research and innovation projects with the best technology universities in Asia. He also set up Xiji Incubator, the first incubation program for Spanish-related entrepreneurs in China.

Claudio has worked on assignments on five continents for main international institutions. His employment record includes spells at the European Commission and the Spanish Ministry of Industry. He also has a 20+ years’ background as founder and mentor of startups and is experienced in managing the implementation of innovative projects. He has been member of the jury for main international startup contests on many occasions. He regularly lectures at international seminars and for postgraduate courses. He also guest edits for major academic journals, having authored more than 300 publications in books, journals and conferences. His latest book addresses the role of technology innovations within international geo-strategy.

OUR
COLLABORATORS

Ella Mary Taylor

Ella Mary Taylor

CONTENT STRATEGY AND SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING

Ella Mary Taylor, Content Strategy Expert, supporting Xiji Incubator social media management and nearing completion of her Business Administration degree at East China Normal University, skillfully blends event coordination, marketing, content strategy, and financial acumen.

Her career highlights include leading marketing initiatives for Hisense Trésor, and enriching her financial background being in charge of executive talent search through her role at Lincoln. She has showcased her event organization expertise by playing a key role in coordinating marketing, logistics and on-site operations for top-tier events like TEDx Shanghai AEBS, S-Tron China, TECOM Shanghai, and TECOM Hangzhou.

Ella also spearheads The Rising Talent Series and The Expats Excel Webinar Series, offering key insights into succeeding in China’s dynamic cross-cultural business landscape. As a curator of the EcoSparks Sustainability Podcast, she showcases her commitment to environmental advocacy, merging her professional expertise with her dedication to making a difference.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO APPLY FOR THE XIJI INCUBATOR PROGRAM? HOW DO I KNOW IF I AM?

Entrepreneurs enrolled at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Universidad Politécnica de Cataluña, Universidad de Sevilla, and Tecnológico de Monterrey are eligible to apply.
Xiji plans to expand eligibility to entrepreneurs from more diverse backgrounds, so stay tuned for updates on when you may become eligible.

DO YOU OFFER FUNDING TO STARTUPS? WHAT ARE THE FINANCIAL SUPPORT OPTIONS AVAILABLE?

While Xiji does not directly provide funding, we assist startups in outlining the funding process and applying for opportunities such as grants, acceleration programs, and investor outreach after the program’s completion.

WHERE WILL I LIVE WHILE PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM? DOES XIJI HELP WITH HOUSING?

Xiji Incubator is located at Tongji University Siping Campus in Shanghai, China. If available, Tongji University offers dormitory accommodation at an affordable price. Otherwise, we can provide guidance on finding off-campus housing.

HOW DO I APPLY TO XIJI INCUBATOR, AND WHAT ARE THE STEPS INVOLVED?

The partner institutions will open the application process for each batch. They will provide specific instructions for your application process. Follow their guidelines, and we will contact you for the subsequent selection rounds.

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE MENTORSHIP AND RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO STARTUPS IN THE PROGRAM?

Xiji does matchmaking between our entrepreneurs and mentors at the beginning of each batch to ensure you receive the best guidance suited to your particular needs.

We also provide business coaching, legal advice and facility-based support such as office space to work on your start-ups.

To maximize your access to the industry, Xiji organizes roadshows and industry salons on a bi-monthly basis, this will help connect you with industry experts and investors.

WHAT IS THE DURATION OF THE PROGRAM, AND WHAT ARE THE EXPECTED COMMITMENTS FROM PARTICIPANTS?

Participants need to commit to the program for given 6 months. During that time, we expect participants to attend all sessions and events, and physically be located in Shanghai.

WHAT KINDS OF NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES CAN I EXPECT WITH INDUSTRY EXPERTS AND POTENTIAL INVESTORS?

Our entrepreneurs can expect private training sessions, coaching, 1:1 mentoring, roadshows and pitching sessions, networking events on different industry verticals, and much more.

WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL RESULTS OR OUTCOMES FOR STARTUPS THAT COMPLETE THE PROGRAM?

After completing the Xiji Incubator Seed Program, startups typically reach the Pre-Seed or Seed stage. They have a validated prototype, increased visibility, relevant industry connections, and the necessary legal support to establish their startups and access investment and talent.

WHAT KIND OF POST-PROGRAM SUPPORT CAN WE EXPECT FROM XIJI?

Once a startup completes the Xiji Seed Program, it becomes part of our startup family. We continuously support, accompany, and introduce them to new development opportunities and access to connections and capital through our extensive network.

Reviews

Member Testimonials

I come from a small village in La Mancha. Being able to come to China, having all the necessary support, resources and facilities, as well as networking opportunities, has been a unique opportunity to turn an idea into a real startup. When we arrived, they provided us with facilities and connected us with factories, commercial offices, public and private entities, and having all this support has been an incredible help to take the leap.

– Santiago Rodrigo, Entrepreneur Xiji 2024 Spring Batch

Six months ago, I made one of the best decisions of my life and one that has changed me the most. Six months ago, I went to China to start a business. Normally, leaving your country is difficult, and starting a business is also challenging. It has been a challenge that has prepared me for everything that comes next in life. I had access to housing, networking, training, and I was able to develop sensors for agriculture in one of the most advanced countries in the world.

– Daniel Hurtado, Entrepreneur Xiji 2024 Spring Batch

An entrepreneurial environment as competitive as Shanghai has been a huge change. It forced me not only to improve my technical skills but also abilities like public speaking and negotiation. It has taught me to move quickly and stay ahead of market demands, to become a more strategic and disciplined person.

– Javier Martínez, Entrepreneur Xiji 2024 Spring Batch