Join us on this exclusive study trip to the technology and innovation hotspots in the Zhejiang province with a population of 100 million and a GDP of US$ 1.3 trillion. Discover the forefront of digital innovation through lectures and discussions with leading academics and industry experts. Visit some of China’s most pioneering companies, including Alibaba, Ant Group, NIO, and Unitree Robotics. Gain first-hand insights into big data, AI, biometrics, e-mobility, smart health, cross-industry ecosystems, social commerce, and super apps.
The program is hosted by the Executive Education of the University of Zurich, in collaboration with Zhejiang University in Hangzhou (ARWU ranking 24th globally).
A unique learning experience
This executive program delivers a distinctive learning journey, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge academic research with deep industry insights from leading companies.
Participants learn directly from top faculty and startup founders, senior executives, and policymakers, whose real-world perspectives bring strategy, innovation, and leadership to life.
You will gain exposure to China’s most dynamic technology and innovation ecosystems, complemented by inspiring discussions and keynotes and curated cultural experiences that deepen your global leadership perspective.
The program connects you with an exclusive executive community, fostering meaningful and lasting relationships.
For more information about the transformative journey through innovation and leadership, see last year'ssummary.
Program highlights
The program (7 days) provides a great platform to learn from lecturers, field trips, company visits, and cultural excursions.
Sunday, June 7, 2026
Shanghai
- Arrival at Shanghai Pudong Intl. Airport and check-in at hotel Radisson Blu New World *****
Day 1 – Monday, June 8
Shanghai
- Morning: History & culture of the city
- Afternoon: NIO headquarter (e-mobilty, innovation, cross-sector ecosystems, super app)
- Evening: Special welcome dinner
Day 2 – Tuesday, June 9
Hangzhou
- Morning: Zhajiang University School of Management: Opening ceremony
- Afternoon: Lecture (culture of technology, innovation, and practices)
- Evening: Check-in at hotel Yagu Spring Resort *****
Day 3 – Wednesday, June 10
Hangzhou
- Morning: Zhejiang University School of Medicine: Lecture and visit of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital (digital health, innovation)
- Afternoon: Zhejiang University Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Lecture and exchange (innovation and entrepreneurship)
Day 4 - Thursday, June 11
Hangzhou
- Morning: Ant Group headquarter (fintech, healthtech, super app, big data, cyber security, AI, biometrics, avatars)
- Afternoon: Unitree Robotics headquarter (convergence of AI and robotics)
Day 5 – Friday, June 12
Hangzhou
- Morning: Hangzhou City Brain (big data, governance, security, smart city)
- Afternoon: Alibaba Cloud headquarter (technology, innovation, sustainability)
- Evening: Farewell dinner with traditional food
Day 6 – Saturday, June 13
Hangzhou
- Morning: Wensli headquarter (hight-tech AI-driven and sustainable silk design and manufacturing)
- Afternoon: West Lake tour
Sunday, June 14
Shanghai
- Departure from Shanghai Pudong Intl. Airport
Date
June 7 to 14, 2026
Target audience
- 15 - 20 participants
- Executives from all sectors, enrolled Executive Education students, alumni of the University of Zurich
Location
Shanghai and Hangzhou, China
ECTS credits
Students enrolled in UZH courses may earn 2 ECTS credits for the trip. This is subject to successfully ompleting an examination. The eligibility of the credits must be coordinated in advance with the program director.
Fees
CHF 5'900, incl. academic program, company visits, food, excursions, transportation. Excluded: hotels, intercontinental flights.
Application deadline
February 28, 2026
Program flyer
Download the program flyer (PDF, 455 KB).