第一财经·2025-08-26 13:43Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China's economy, highlighting their role in driving innovation and sustaining industrial upgrades in the context of rapid technological advancements and global economic changes [1]. Group 1: Importance of SMEs - SMEs are crucial for improving industrial structure and unleashing innovation in China, serving as a vital force for the country's new productive forces [1]. - The "NEXT20" initiative aims to systematically research and track the growth potential of small-cap listed companies in the capital market, addressing the gap in growth research and evaluation for these firms [1]. Group 2: Evaluation Process - The evaluation team has initiated on-site visits to several shortlisted companies, including those in the semiconductor and power equipment sectors, as well as advanced medical device firms with high R&D capabilities [2]. - The evaluation process involves multiple rigorous assessment stages, including data screening, quantitative scoring, and voting by judges, ultimately selecting 68 companies for further research [1][2]. Group 3: Insights from Companies - During discussions, company managers shared key milestones in their development and showcased the core drivers of their growth and technological innovation [3]. - Companies demonstrated a strong understanding of future trends and exhibited confidence in their product's market appeal and customer retention [3]. Group 4: Global Expansion Strategies - Many tech innovation companies view international expansion as a key strategy for market growth, with firms showing rational consideration of risks and returns in overseas markets [5]. - Companies expressed confidence in their technological capabilities and clarity in their future growth objectives [5]. Group 5: Future Plans - The evaluation team plans to continue in-depth assessments of shortlisted companies across various cities, including Beijing, Qingdao, Hangzhou, and Taizhou, to evaluate their comprehensive strength and industry advantages [9]. - The "NEXT20" list will be unveiled in November, accompanied by a forum and award ceremony in Shanghai, bringing together government leaders, experts, and industry representatives to discuss the cultivation of new productive forces [9].