On 20th June 2025, Cambridge welcomed a delegation from Shanghai Lingang New Area Aviation Industry Development Co., Ltd. for a constructive and forward-looking exchange. Organised by Excellence First Enterprise Consultancy (EFEC), the meeting represented a measured but important step in renewing dialogue between two internationally engaged innovation communities.
A Warm and Professional Welcome
The Lingang delegation was received at Innovate Cambridge’s Glasshouse and continued their visit at Mills & Reeve. Both organisations provided a welcoming environment that reflected Cambridge’s tradition of openness and collaboration. We are grateful to Innovate Cambridge and Mills & Reeve for their thoughtful hospitality, which left a positive impression on our visitors.
The delegation included:
- Mr Gu Ruilai – Chairman and General Manager
- Ms Deng Mi (Jessica) – Assistant General Manager
- Mr Zhang Huifeng and Ms Xing Yan – Division Managers for Industry Recruitment & Inward Investment Promotion
Jessica, a longstanding contact of EFEC and Cambridge Network, introduced the group and shared insights into their ongoing work in the aviation sector.
Lingang colleagues share recent developments and rapid growth in Lingang New Area with Mr Gourd, CEO of Cambridge Network
Highlight: John Gourd’s Reflection on the Cambridge Phenomenon
At the heart of the visit was a meeting with John Gourd, CEO of Cambridge Network. Mr Gourd offered a compelling overview of the Cambridge Phenomenon—tracing its history from the city’s early days as a centre of academic excellence to its emergence as a world-renowned innovation ecosystem. He emphasised how the unique culture of collaboration across academia, business, and government has enabled Cambridge to nurture startups and help them scale into global success stories.
John reflected on the Network’s mission to carry forward the Cambridge legacy, highlighting its role in supporting thousands of knowledge-intensive businesses and facilitating connections that have led to internationally recognised achievements. He also introduced recent initiatives such as Cambridge NeuroWorks, a project that showcases the city’s commitment to advancing cutting-edge research and fostering new opportunities for growth.
Looking ahead, John expressed the Network’s ambition to further elevate Cambridge’s global impact by engaging with international partners and sharing the region’s success with the wider world. He warmly welcomed the opportunity to reconnect with Lingang, noting the potential for meaningful collaboration and mutual learning as both ecosystems continue to evolve.
John Gourd, CEO of Cambridge Network, presents the Cambridge Phenomenon and the city’s collaborative innovation story to the Lingang delegation
Renewing a Trusted Relationship
Since 2018, EFEC has supported the relationship between Cambridge Network and Lingang, providing continuity and a platform for shared learning. The Cambridge approach—centred on ecosystem building and cross-sector collaboration—has resonated with partners across the Yangtze River Delta, including Lingang.
This recent meeting allowed both sides to reconnect after several years of global disruption. Mr Gu, in turn, highlighted developments at the Large Aircraft Industrial Park (LAIP), a 25 km² cluster that is becoming a focal point for China’s aviation industry, home to companies such as Boeing, COMAC, and GE Aerospace. He also reflected on Lingang Group’s experience facilitating international partnerships, including support for Tesla’s entry into China, underscoring the value of long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration.
Mr Gu and Mr Gourd shake hands, marking a shared commitment to future partnerships between Cambridge and Lingang.
Shared Intent for Continued Dialogue
Lily Lin, CEO of EFEC and a Cambridge Network member, emphasised the importance of maintaining open communication:
“There will be opportunities for Cambridge Network members to explore in Lingang. Let’s keep the conversation going, understand each other’s needs, and work towards meaningful, long-term partnerships that foster mutual growth.”
About EFEC
Founded in 2006, Excellence First Enterprise Consultancy (EFEC) bridges the UK and China through innovation, education, and enterprise. With a focus on emerging technologies, life sciences, and advanced manufacturing, EFEC provides strategic advice and partnership support to help ideas and organisations succeed across borders.
Looking Ahead
While modest in scale, this visit reaffirmed the potential for practical collaboration. With renewed goodwill, Cambridge and Lingang are well positioned to learn from one another and explore new opportunities together.
We extend our thanks to everyone who made this exchange possible, especially Innovate Cambridge and Mills & Reeve, whose hospitality reflected the optimism and warmth of the Cambridge summer.