Macao’s 929 Challenge bootcamp logs record registrations

The 929 Challenge 2026 has reached a significant milestone, welcoming 511 approved registrations for its largest edition to date. Participants have applied from Macao, the Greater Bay Area, elsewhere in mainland China, and diverse Portuguese-speaking countries. 

The challenge is a startup competition, with entrants pitching for funding and incubation opportunities. Notably, Brazil emerged as the single largest source of applications, contributing more than 100 startup registrants. This strong turnout highlights the growing energy within Brazil’s startup ecosystem, following proactive promotional visits by organisers earlier this year and support from Sebrae – Brazil’s national support service for SMEs.

With the 929 Challenge bootcamp commencing 12 October, 11 expert speakers from China, Portugal, Brazil, and Mozambique are scheduled to lead online sessions. The curriculum is designed to bridge market gaps, noting that a product succeeding in one region may face challenges elsewhere due to distinct digital tools, consumer habits, and business cultures.

The 929 Challenge bootcamp: programme

Key industries standing out this year include healthcare, fintech, energy, deep tech, agri-tech, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and sustainability. Three dedicated sessions will focus on Macao, the Greater Bay Area, and China’s digital economy, alongside briefings on major Portuguese-speaking markets. Furthermore, investor preparation sessions will feature insights from Golden Meridian VC’s Rui Ferreira and the Venture Growth’s João Laginha Martins.

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Following the live webinars, participants will engage in one-to-one mentoring supported by a network of over 100 investors, founders, and executives. Teams will refine their business models before submitting final video pitches and decks. A judging committee will subsequently select 16 finalists.

The journey culminates on 4 December in Macao for the Finals and the 929 Summit, where finalists will tour innovation hubs across Macao, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. 

Organised by AEIMCP and co-organised by Forum Macau and the Sino Lusophone Association for Sustainability, with backing from Macao’s Economic and Technological Development Bureau, the initiative continues to strengthen Macao’s pivotal role as a commercial platform between China and Portuguese-speaking nations.