AAMA GBA 'China Enterprises Going Global Summit', July 3, 2026 in Hong Kong
The AAMA Greater Bay Area “China Enterprises Going Global Summit” in Hong Kong was a great success. A special congratulations to Robert Lee for his outstanding leadership in bringing together such a high-level and meaningful event. His opening remarks set the right tone for the summit — highlighting AAMA’s role as a bridge connecting the Greater Bay Area, Silicon Valley, and the global innovation ecosystem.
The summit brought together many senior government officials, business leaders, academics, investors, and entrepreneurs to discuss the strategic opportunities and practical pathways for Chinese enterprises going global.
AAMA Silicon Valley Mixer, June 23, 2026 in Palo Alto
Our AAMA Professional Mixer was a tremendous success. Set inside the welcoming space at Pillsbury LLP, this mixer brought together professionals from across the AAMA network. They had a chance to catch up, make new connections, and enjoy a lively evening together. We want to give a special thank you to Dr. Robert P. Lee and Dr. Jack Gao for their insightful discussions. Their comments sparked the innovation mindset of attendees, and the energy was palpable.
AAMA April 22nd forum ' Leadership, Policy, and Capital in Semiconductors' at the Pillsbury office in Palo Alto was a great success.
"A huge thank you to David Lam for organizing the event. The room was packed and standing-room only; the panels were well-structured and substantive, and the reception afterward was a perfect close to the evening. A great outcome on top of an already great event. Dr. Lam was outstanding — the audience was thrilled to hear from him first-hand, and his remarks were a real highlight of the evening. Our Chairman, Robert Lee, also did a terrific job introducing AAMA and acknowledging the AAMA-GBA board members — it set exactly the right tone for the evening. See you next at our June 23rd mixer at the Pillsbury office in Palo Alto. " -Nader Fathi President AAMA Silicon Valley
January 16, 2026
Global Innovation & the Future of Media and AI
How AI is transfong global media, content, platforms,
and cross-border innovation
AAMA Board members, Speakers and Panelist at the event:
October 8, 2025
August 6, 2025
AAMA–Silicon Valley Forum Inspires New Conversations on AI, Longevity, and the Future of Entrepreneurship
San Francisco, August 8, 2025. The Asia America MultiTechnology Association (AAMA)–Silicon Valley successfully hosted its forum, AAMA & Entrepreneurship: AI, Longevity, and the Future, at the Silicon Valley Bank Experience Center on August 6, 2025. The event brought together AAMA Cradle Program alumni, Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, and investors for a deep exploration of how cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and longevity health are converging to shape
the future of innovation and entrepreneurship.
AAMA Taipei Cradle Project reaches 10th anniversary, and 25 new startups will be included this year The AAMA Taipei Cradle Project has entered its 10th year this year. After two rounds of selection at the end of June, the 10th batch of 25 entrepreneurs were welcomed.
AAMA Taipei Cradle Project, latest news
June 20, 2025
The list of students for the 12th AAMA Cradle Program has been announced! Solutions range from Web3.0 to content production, combining digital technology and life service projects, creating more sparks of cross-border communication The AAMA Taipei Cradle Project aims to cultivate the next generation of iconic entrepreneurs in Taiwan. Every year, successful entrepreneurs and professional managers are invited to serve as mentors to recruit talented entrepreneurs.
AAMA 11th – The entrepreneurial projects of new start-ups are diverse, ranging from Web3.0 to energy technology. The mentor group covers leading industries and multinational companies, providing diverse industry perspectives. The 11th batch of startups has diverse entrepreneurial projects, ranging from Web3.0 to energy technology, and the mentor group covers leading industries and multinational companies, providing diverse industry perspectives.
The list of finalists for the 13th AAMA Taipei Cradle Project has been announced! From AI applications to local revitalization, cross-industry learning, taking into account technological trends and sustainable innovation The results of the 13th AAMA Taipei Cradle Project recruitment finals were officially announced today (6/21). A total of 25 entrepreneurs were selected this year. Among them, the digital technology field covers the popular trends in recent years, including AI, smart manufacturing, marketing technology, educational technology, agricultural technology, smart medical care, and data analysis; the life service field includes tourism, curatorship, education, product design, interior design and other industries. Whether it is digital technology or life services, the shortlisted companies all focus on entrepreneurial themes such as sustainable innovation and local revitalization, hoping to have a greater impact.
AAMA, Taipei Cradle Project latest news
May 30, 2025
AAMA Silicon Valley Hosts Entrepreneur Meetup Celebrating Innovation and Community
May 30, 2025 – Silicon Valley, USA – The Asia America MultiTechnology Association – Silicon Valley (AAMA-SV) hosted an Entrepreneur Meetup that brought together a cross-generational group of entrepreneurs, technologists, and investors at the heart of the global innovation ecosystem. Many attendees have been part of the AAMA community for over 15 years, a testament to the association’s enduring impact in fostering innovation and global entrepreneurship.
The event served as both a reunion and a forward-looking dialogue, offering participants the chance to reflect on their entrepreneurial journeys while discussing emerging opportunities in AI, longevity science, digital health, and global innovation.
Among the participants:
Dr. Stan Wang, Former President of AAMA-Silicon Valley (2004) and AAMA-Beijing (2007), shared reflections on AAMA’s evolution across the US and Asia, highlighting its unique role in cultivating leaders who bridge continents and cultures.
Dr. Huijun Ring, a successful biotech entrepreneur and current professor at Stanford University, spoke on the power of mentorship and community. She highlighted how AAMA—particularly the AAMA Entrepreneur Cradle Program—has supported technology founders and empowered innovators to achieve global impact. Drawing from her own experience, Dr. Ring emphasized the importance of community in transforming bold ideas into impactful ventures.
Huan Li, a seasoned AI entrepreneur, shared lessons learned from launching and scaling multiple ventures.
AAMA-SV continues to play a foundational role in shaping the entrepreneurial ecosystem through mentorship, investment networks, and deep entrepreneur connectivity. This May 30 meetup highlighted personal journeys of resilience and transformation—proof of AAMA’s enduring value in empowering innovation and collaboration.
The conversation also looked ahead to the AAMA Roundtable: “AAMA and Entrepreneurship: AI, Longevity, and Beyond”, scheduled for August 6, 2025 in San Francisco. This high-profile event will feature a keynote address by Dr. Huijun Ring, followed by a panel discussion with leaders in AI, biotech, and venture capital, and a networking reception.
Looking forward, as the global innovation landscape continues to evolve, AAMA-SV remains committed to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Efforts are underway to expand engagement with tech founders, academic leaders, and investors in both the U.S. and Asia. AAMA will continue to serve as a vital bridge—connecting global resources with local action, and helping startups not only launch, but scale and thrive on the world stage.
About AAMA
Founded in 1979, AAMA (Asia America MultiTechnology Association) is a leading pan-Asian technology organization accelerating innovation, fostering business collaboration, and driving global commercial success. With regional chapters in Silicon Valley, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, AAMA facilitates local business partnerships while maintaining strong ties with its Silicon Valley headquarters. The association provides global insights and resources to its members, strengthening international technology and business ecosystems.
March 17, 2025
AAMA—A Space for Connecting Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship --A Dialogue with AAMA Leaders
On March 17, 2025, in Palo Alto, CA, USA – Robert Lee, former president of AAMA-SV (Asia America MultiTechnology Association – Silicon Valley); met with AAMA members Tong Zhilei and Huijun Ring to get up to date on members’ accomplishments in recent years.
Tong Zhilei is a former AAMA-Beijing President; Founder, Chairman, and President, COL Group, one of the world’s largest Chinese-language digital publishing platforms.
Dr. Huijun Ring, a Professor at Stanford University joined AAMA in 2010 and since has been active in the AAMA community.
They reflected on AAMA’s achievements during the meeting and discussed future strategies building upon past success. Since its founding in 1979, AAMA has been dedicated to technological advancement, fostering business collaboration, and promoting economic growth across the Asia America communities and beyond. Tong Zhilei and Dr. Huijun Ring both bear witness to AAMA’s continuous fulfillment of its mission and purpose.
Tong Zhilei reflected that the AAMA Beijing chapter was formed in 2004. He served as president of the chapter from 2021 to 2023.
The chapter’s Entrepreneur Cradle Program was launched in 2006, in the past 20 years, it has engaged over 500 top-tier mentors and supported more than 800 entrepreneurs. As a result, 66 companies have gone public. The program has facilitated over 500 billion RMB in investment and financing, and has become one of the longest-running and most successful public incubation platforms in China
Going forward, Ring believes AAMA-SV should continue to focus on facilitating innovation networks— sponsoring partnership building events with new entrepreneurs, technology leaders, and the academic community.
Founded in 1979, AAMA (Asia America MultiTechnology Association) is a leading pan-Asian technology organization accelerating innovation, fostering business collaboration, and driving global commercial success. With regional chapters in Silicon Valley, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, AAMA facilitates local business partnerships while maintaining strong ties with its Silicon Valley headquarters. The association provides global insights and resources to its members, strengthening international technology and business ecosystems.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
More about the meeting guests Tong Zhilei and Dr. Huijun Z Ring:
Founder, Chairman, and President, COL Group.Founded. In 2015, Tong led the COL Group to a successful public listing on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange, recognized as China’s first digital publishing stock.Tong Zhilei has been a pioneer in China’s digital publishing industry.
Guided by its mission “Better Content, Better Life,” COL Group has cultivated a network of more than 4.5 million authors and amassed a library of 5.6 million digital works, attracting over 100 million users.Today, it stands among China’s largest digital content and service providers, with subsidiaries in the United States, Singapore, and Japan.By leveraging advances in artificial intelligence and new media, COL Group has also become a pioneer in the emerging short-form digital drama industry.
Tong served as a Visiting Scholar at Harvard’s Fairbank Center for Chinese from 2016 to 2018. In 2000, Tong founded the COL at Tsinghua University Team.He was the captain of the championship group that won the first “China College Students Entrepreneurship Competition”.Tong’s leadership and innovation have earned him numerous honors--named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2014, and one of China’s Cultural Industry Figures of the Year in 2015.Currently Tong is a 2025 Fellow of Harvard University’s Advanced Leadership Initiative (ALI).
Dr. Ring joined AAMA—Beijing Chapter in 2010. She was a graduate of the Beijing Chapter’s cradle program.She has become a leader in the biotech industry and longevity medicine research.She has bridged academia and industry through interdisciplinary collaborations. At Stanford, she has mentored numerous startup projects to success, and continues to foster connections between business school students and biomedical researchers.
March 3, 2025
About the author:
Philip Leung is Founding President of AAMA (Greater Bay Area)
MASTER INSIGHT|AI is the New Chips|Moore's Law Expands Into AI
AI is the New Chips
-Of Gordon Moore and DeepSeek: Moore's Law Expands into AI
Dr. Gordon Moore, co-founder and chairman emeritus of Intel Corporation, was the undisputed king of semiconductors since the 1960s. His company was my archrival during my tenure at AMD and later became a key supplier when I served as a computer executive at Vtech, Compaq, and Silicon Graphics. Moore’s Law, his groundbreaking observation, stipulates that the number of transistors in an integrated circuit (IC) doubles every 18 to 24 months.
Remarkably, Moore’s Law now seems to extend its reach beyond semiconductors into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI).Since DeepSeek’s AI announcement in December 2024, headlines have been dominated by its breakthroughs, applications, and implications. What truly stands out, however, is not China’s entry into the AI race three years after ChatGPT’s global debut, nor the obscure company’s ability to create a large language model (LLM) - algorithm that applies neural-network techniques to understand,process, and generate human languages - with world-class mathematical and engineering capabilities. The real marvel lies in DeepSeek’s staggering cost reduction for training LLMs. While Meta spent US$6million on developing its Llama 3.1 LLM model, DeepSeek achieved similar results for just US$6. This is not merely a technical feat—it’s a paradigm shift, redefining efficiency and cost as the new battlegrounds in AI. DeepSeek’s achievements challenge industry giants, accelerate AI democratization, and force a re-evaluation of traditional strategies.
From my vantage point in Hong Kong, our AI ecosystem faces significant challenges, particularly a 49% talent shortage among firms. To bridge this gap, the HKSAR government, along with the localtech community, is investing strategically, such as the 2024-2025 High-Performance Computing (HPC) center and collaborations with Shenzhen.
The world is in the midst of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which has brought forth the advent of a new "Imagination Age". Creativity and imagination have now become the primary drivers of economic value, as well as national power and confidence. As a global nexus and arguably China’s crown jewel, Hong Kong must balance high costs and East-West dynamics while mirroring the efficiency gains seen in semiconductors.
Drawing on my 40 years in semiconductors and computing, I propose a compelling hypothesis: AI is undergoing a transformation akin to the semiconductor revolution. Moore’s Law, once the guiding principle of technological progress, is now influencing AI. Just as it drove exponential growth in computing power, a similar dynamic is propelling AI forward-albeit with unique challenges.
Moore’s Law, articulated by Gordon Moore in 1965, states that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles every 18 to 24 months. This exponential growth has driven the technological revolution for six decades, making devices faster, lighter, more efficient, and increasingly sophisticated. From smartphones and drones to wearables like FitBits and iWatches, this relentless progress has transformed our world. The semiconductor industry’s ability to consistently improve performance and reduce costs has set a benchmark for other fields. AI isnow following a similar trajectory.
It’s evidentto me that “AI is the new chips,” with Moore’s Law beginning to shape its development. The parallels are striking: AI is experiencing rapid evolution, exponential growth, and cost reductions fueled by innovation and competition. However, AI diverges from Moore’s Law in a critical way. While semiconductor progress is constrained by the physical limits of transistor size, AI’s advancements rely on algorithmic breakthroughs, data availability, and computational power. Additionally, AI must navigate geopolitical tensions, legal challenges, and regulatory hurdles—factors the semiconductor industry largely avoided in its early days. These complexities could either accelerate or hinder AI’s progress, shaping its trajectory in ways distinct from the semiconductor revolution.
China is poised to play a pivotal role in driving down the costs associated with AI, leveraging its vast resources, talent pool, and strategic investments in technology. However, whether China will ascend to dominance in this field remains an open question. Even if it does, maintaining that position will require continuous innovation and the ability to outpace competitors. History offers a cautionary tale in the form of Intel, which reigned supreme in the semiconductor industry for over two decades, only to be recently challenged and surpassed by formidable contenders such as ARM, AMD, nVidia, Samsung, and TSMC. In a twist of fate, TSMC is now contemplating the acquisition of Intel's wafer fabrication operations, underscoring the dynamic and ever-shifting landscape of the industry. This serves as a reminder that no leader, no matter how dominant, can afford complacency in the face of relentless competition and technological change.
Ray Dalio’s seminal work on the rise and fall of empires applies equally to corporations. Giants like General Motors, U.S. Steel, and GE have faltered, reminding us that no entity is immune to change. The AI industry, too, must heed this lesson. As barriers to entry lower, smaller players and startups can challenge established giants. The winner-take-all playing field has been replaced as this democratization of AI is leading to a more diverse and innovative ecosystem. However, this also raises questions about sustainability, ethical considerations, and the potential for misuse. The role of regulation and international cooperation will be critical in ensuring that AI advancements benefit humanity as a whole, rather than exacerbating existing inequalities or creating new risks.
In conclusion, DeepSeek’s achievement heralds a new era defined by efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and rapid innovation. AI’s future will be shaped by technological breakthroughs, geopolitical dynamics, and regulatory frameworks. The lessons I learned working in semiconductors, as well as observing the rise and fall of corporate giants for decades, offer valuable insights into navigating this transformation. Whether AI will drastically change the world is no longer a debatable point. It already has. The important question is how we will steer this change toward a future that is equitable, sustainable, and prosperous for all.
About the author:
Philip Leung is Founding President of AAMA (Greater Bay Area). Technology Executive, highly experienced in international market entry. MBA from Harvard University. BSc in Electrical Engineering from University of Hong Kong, where he is Adjunct Professor. He has served as President of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Governor of the American Chamber of Commerce, and Adjunct Professor at the City University of Hong Kong. He teaches occasionally in HKU, CUHK and HK Polytechnic University. He has lived in various cities in Asia and the US, and worked in the international technology business community for more than 40 years.
China Healthcare Innovation Platform (CHiP) Hong Kong Visit
This week we are honored to receive a delegation from Shanghai CHiP (short for China Healthcare Innovation Platform) in Hong Kong and assist them to meet with Hong Kong Hospital Authority and Hong Kong Cyberport. On this two-day visit they also held their startup competition with 10 finalists where our VP Jackwell Huang was one of the judges. We also managed to greet them in HKU Medical School and established new contacts there…All in all we are grateful for this opportunity to foster collaboration between GBA (Greater Bay Area) and Shanghai, and also widen our medtech industry circle. We expect a lot of follow up activities with different parties.
AIR Summit aims to bring leading experts, researchers, and industry professionals in the field of aerospace technology and innovation. This summit provides a platform for collaborative discussions, knowledge sharing, and exploration of cutting-edge advancements in aerospace research, including deep space exploration, rockets and satellites, space policy, new space economy and start-ups in space. By facilitating networking opportunities and cross-disciplinary collaborations, the AIR Summit will drive innovation and promote advancements in aerospace technology, propelling the industry towards a more interconnected and innovative future.
Venue: Jockey Club Auditorium, PolyU (Opening and forum)
October 16, 2024
October 16, 2024
Collaborations with HK Hospital Authority's Innovation Lab
AAMA President, SC Mak, and the project team paid a visit to Hong Kong Hospital Authority (HA) IT Innovation Lab in August 2024. During the visit, HA shared their innovation direction and current focuses with us. HA also invited AAMA members to share their innovation products and ideas to HA.
For those who want to participate in the collaboration, please send a email to eric.ho@aamaprg.org briefly explain your idea. Once the project team has collected all the inputs, we’ll then coordinate with HA to arrange a more in-depth discussion sessions to explore join opportunities. The tentative schedule of the meeting will in mid-November.
Note: Non-members will be advised to join our membership before joining the activity.
Are you a Hong Kong entrepreneur looking to tap into Vietnam's booming non-manufacturing markets? Join us at the upcoming 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝘁 & 𝗥𝗼𝗮𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 for an insightful talk on expanding into Vietnam, with a special focus on sectors beyond manufacturing, including the vibrant 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 & 𝗕𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 industry.
🔗 Register now to secure your spot and unlock new opportunities in Vietnam!
AAMA x CIDE Future Technology Leaders Entrepreneurs Salon
June 7, 2024
June 7, 2024
Partner Event | Get started with AI Forum
AI is set to transform the world of learning - in schools and at the workplace. Are you ready to reap the opportunities and manage the risks of using AI?
We are pleased to support the 'Get started with AI' forum organized by Esperana. Designed for educators and learning & development professionals, the forum gathers international experts and local practitioners to look into:
Developing an AI readiness roadmap for your organization
The first steps to using AI in teaching and staff development
Using AI to innovate learning : Case of Singapore
How we might support the uptake of AI in teaching and learning in Hong Kong
Admission is free. For more information and registration, please visit bit.ly/49FJmgT on or before 3 June.
May 6, 2024
May 6, 2024
SECOND MICROELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY FORUM 2024 -Fostering Collaboration For Microelectronics Innovation
VENUE Conference Halls 4–5, 2/F, Building 10W, Hong Kong Science Park
Riding on the success of the last symposium in 2021, the Second Microelectronics Technology Forum (MTF) 2024 brings together stakeholders from the government, academia, industry and investment community to exchange their views and discussions about the opportunities and challenges in this dynamic industry.
Co-organized by IEEE Electronic Device Society Hong Kong Chapter and Semiconductor Nanotechnology Alliance (SNA), the Second MTF 2024 seeks to foster collaboration for microelectronics innovation to drive technological advancements, and establish strategic partnerships for the industry.
December 21, 2023
September 28, 2023
August 24, 2023
July 22, 2022
July 22, 2022
China has been a leading destination for businesses and entrepreneurs to expand and grow within their fields in the last four decades. But the recent surveys conducted by foreign business prospects in China, with many citing the impact of COVID-19 containment measures, rising operational costs, and worsening geopolitical tensions as major anxieties.
Despite the issues facing foreign companies in China, there are also indications that they remain committed to the China market. Should the Asia American Multitechnology companies plan to 'do more, not less' business in China? Is the allure of doing business in China persistent or vanishing?
Dr. Jack Q. Gao is visiting the Bay Area from China and we are pleased to have him accept our invitation to share his views with our AAMA friends as he had done in the last many years.
China is at a historical crossroads of innovation—presenting U.S. companies with a new economic reality and new rules of engagement.
Join us this Friday, July 22nd, 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm PST for an exclusive event with global expansion experts from the U.S. and China featuring a keynote by Dr. Jack Q. Gao on the new reality of business with China.
Together, we'll explore the impact of these recent trends driving change across the Chinese innovation economy, and share optimal business practices for U.S.-based company expansion into Asia and vice-versa.
What does all of this mean for U.S. innovation companies and investors looking to do business in and/or with China?
purchase also includes a set menu dinner from the HK Flower Lounge Restaurant, a speaking program, discussions, networking, and wine provided by Silicon Valley Bank.
Dr. Jack Q. Gao is Founding Partner and CEO of “Smart Cinema”, a direct-to-consumer mobile platform devoting to exhibit theatrically released movies in Greater China, North America and South Korea. Previously, Dr. Gao was CEO of International Investments and Operations, Wanda Cultural Industry Group; Senior Vice President for News Corporation and Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. and President of Microsoft (China) Co. Ltd. In 2019, Dr. Gao received Year Achievement Award from AAMA.
May 5-5, 2022
May 5-7, 2022
Please enjoy an upcoming invitations to TiE Con Silicon Valley 2022 on May 5-7, fostering entrepreneurship and progress.
26 Apr 2022
April 26, 2022
The StartMeUpHK 2022 webinar on April 26 will present many prominent speakers from venture capital investment, Bay Area Council and successful startups. The webinar is dedicated to companies, startups and entrepreneurs interested in exploring and expanding business to the Asia Pacific region. The webinar is sponsored by Invest Hong Kong.
The webinar will present many prominent speakers from venture capital investment, Bay Area Council and successful startups. The webinar is dedicated to companies, startups and entrepreneurs interested in exploring and expanding business to the Asia Pacific region. The webinar is sponsored by Invest Hong Kong.
Rebecca A. Fannin, Moderator & Host.
March 31, 2022
Exclusive preview of Everything Everywhere All At Once
AMC Kabuki 8, 1881 Post Street, San Francisco, CA 94115
March 8, 2022
March 8, 2022
The topic of Innovation and Expansion is still at the heart of the US-China relationship as both nations race to invent and build for the future. While geopolitical tensions have cooled the cross-border relationships between the two ecosystems, both markets have continued to innovate. This panel features three expert views on the economy, the relationship, and the ecosystem.
EVENT DETAILS
China is at a historical crossroads of innovation—presenting U.S. companies with a new economic reality, new rules of engagement, and most of all, new business opportunities.
Join us on Tuesday, March 8th, 4:00pm - 5:00pm PST for an exclusive virtual fireside chat with global expansion experts from the U.S. and China.
Together, we'll explore the impact of these recent trends driving change across the Chinese innovation economy, and share optimal business practices for U.S. based company expansion into Asia and vice-versa
Domestically—The economic infrastructure is transitioning from a credit-dependent model to a consumption-led one. Demographically—China's aging population is drastically shaping its economic priorities and creating new opportunities for innovators. Diplomatically—Increasingly competitive US-China relations are testing the market in new ways and influencing China's innovation sector to exponentially grow (and keep growing). But what does all of this mean for U.S. innovation companies and investors looking to do business in and/or with China?
FEATURED SPEAKERS
Dr. Bing Xiang, Dean of Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business (长江商学院), an elite MBA/EMBA school in China. Founded by Li-Ka-shing, the school is dubbed as the business school for billionaires. In their first EMBA class in 2004/2005, among the 30 students, 28 of them have their own planes and two have two planes to avoid the travel conflicts between the wife and the husband. Dr. Xiang will speak on where China economy is heading.
Alan Beebe, President of American Chamber of Commerce in China. Alan will give us an update on how US companies are doing in China and his prediction of the future business environment there. He’s lived in China for close to 20 years.
Edith Yeung, GP of Race Capital, an early stage VC here in the valley. Edith will discuss US VC community’s take on China and its innovation sector. She speaks frequently on CNBC and WSJ tech conferences.
This event will be moderated by Li Song, CFA—Managing Director of SVB’s Asia Link practice.
December 7, 2021
December 7, 2021
This month and year, we want to take the opportunity to thank everyone again for their continued support of AAMA and the community. Covid-19 has affected our ability to gather but with many of our upcoming initiatives, AAMA is looking forward to ways to support the community and each other digitally.
We are busy planning and have so much in store we cannot wait to share with you in the New Year!
For now, we have a special screening to share with you and wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year from all of us at AAMA Silicon Valley!
A special invitation to a film about equity and education on Thursday evening in San Francisco.
Try Harder! Movie Launch + Q&A with Director, Special Guests & Celebration Reception this Thursday in SF!
As a school year heads into winter break the Superior Court of San Francisco overturned a decision by the Board of Education to proceed to eliminate merit-based admission to Lowell High School in San Francisco and to remove any handicaps based on race. A nonprofit group Students for Fair Admissions (SFFA) is petitioning the U.S. Supreme Court to revisit and review Harvard’s use of race in its undergraduate admissions process discriminating against Asian American applicants in favor of white applicants.
We hope you can join us this Thursday, Dec 2nd at 7PM for the launch screening of award-winning documentary Try Harder! Q&A with director Debbie Lum + special guests and celebration reception afterward!
Featuring Young Sohn, Chairman, Harman International | Senior Advisor, Samsung Electronics | Co-Founder, Extreme Tech Challenge (XTC), AAMA is hosting its highly anticipated event this coming Wednesday, January 27th at 4 PM PT. Hear from industry trailblazers and innovators. Registration is free thanks to our generous sponsors.
The China Internet Report is back! Race Capital General Partner and 500 Startups Advisor Edith Yeung will give us the latest update on the most important statistics and technology trends in China in 2020.
China has emerged on the world stage with many global tech giants that are super innovative and competitive. And increasingly, their successes are being studied and replicated the Western World. This report, informed by on-the-ground reporting by South China Morning Post and Edith Yeung, offers insights into the latest China’s technology trends shaping the world’s biggest internet community.
As we navigate unprecedented times, our conversation with the global community continues. Join us July 8 for a discussion with Lip-Bu Tan, CEO of Cadence Design Systems, Chairman of Walden International, and Founding Managing Partner of WRVI Capital.He will offer insight on what’s ahead for tech companies, startups and VCs in Silicon Valley, focusing on topics such as:
How the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the global tech sector supply chain
Semiconductor industry outlook and tech trends
How investment landscape has changed for tech companies in Silicon Valley and Asia
Advice for startups and entrepreneurs, and finding strength and resilience through a crisis
Join us for meaningful conversations as we welcome industry luminary Lip-Bu Tan to share his perspectives on the state of the industry and what’s in store for 2020 and beyond.
Janet Yang, Founder and President of Janet Yang Productions, is an award-winning Hollywood producer whose film and TV credits include The Joy Luck Club, The People vs. Larry Flynt, Dark Matter, Zero Effect, Shanghai Calling, and High Crimes. Janet won a Golden Globe and Emmy for her HBO film, Indictment: The McMartin Trial. She began her career distributing Chinese films in North America and was brought to Hollywood in the 1980’s where she successfully brokered the first sale of Hollywood movies to China since 1949. She got her start in production working in Shanghai with Steven Spielberg on Empire of the Sun in 1987. Most recently, Yang served as an executive producer for the acclaimed documentary film Documented, written and directed by journalist Jose Antonio Vargas.
Join us June 10, to hear Janet tell us her inspirational story, which includes being named one of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Hollywood, and discuss her upcoming projects!
Wednesday, June 10, 2020 | 5:00 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Guest Speaker:
Janet Yang, Founder and President, Janet Yang Productions; Golden Globe and Emmy-Award Winning Hollywood Producer
Moderated by:
Norman Liang, Co-President, AAMA Silicon Valley
Sponsors:
Silicon Valley Bank
Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, San Francisco
The Center for Innovation Design and Entrepreneurship | School of Management and Economics | The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen
This webinar is available in the following languages: English, Chinese (Mandarin)
A Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning Hollywood producer with deep roots in China, Janet Yang has worked with some of the most formidable directors and actors in the world. She came to prominence through her collaboration with Steven Spielberg on Empire of the Sun (Warner Bros). That was followed by a long partnership with multiple Academy Award-winner Oliver Stone—where she served as Executive Producer on the iconic The Joy Luck Club (Disney), and as a Producer on the Golden Globe-winning The People vs. Larry Flynt (Columbia Pictures).
She is currently in production on an animated feature based on her original story inspired by the Chinese moon goddess. Iconic animator Glen Keane directs the movie for Netflix and Pearl Studios.
Among her many other credits are: the Sundance award-winning Dark Matter with Meryl Streep and Chinese star, Liu Ye; The Weight of Water (Lions Gate) directed by Academy Award winner Kathryn Bigelow; Fox’s High Crimes with Morgan Freeman; a Chinese adaptation of the acclaimed Disney franchise High School Musical; and cult favorites Zero Effect, by Jake Kasdan, and Shanghai Calling with China Film Group.
Yang has been named one of the “50 Most Powerful Women in Hollywood” by the Hollywood Reporter.
Yang began her career by running the first distribution company to market Chinese films into North America. She also brokered the reintroduction of American cinema to the Chinese marketplace on behalf of several studios after a decades-long hiatus.
Committed to fostering global understanding, Yang has been a long-standing member of the Committee of 100, and an advisory board member of Asia Society Southern California where he chairs its highly regarded US-ASIA ENTERTAINMENT SUMMIT as well as its nascent AWE: Asian Women Empowered Initiative. She is also a co-founder of #GoldHouse, a leading group of Asians in tech, media and entertainment.
Yang was recently named a Governor of the Academy of Motion Pictures, and serves on a number of its committees.
Yang has been featured in The New York Times, LA Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Variety, South China Morning Post, Harper’s Bazaar, as well as on numerous television and radio shows across the US and Asia such as CCTV and Beijing TV. She is frequently asked to consult on projects and sought after for public speaking engagements.
Fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Yang holds a B.A. from Brown University in Chinese studies and an M.B.A. from Columbia University.
Turning Crisis into Opportunity - Smart Cinema Hits Warp Speed
In a world changed by COVID-19, we must innovate for a new reality. What does this look like in practice? How are businesses meeting shifts in demand?
Our next webinar, “Turning Crisis into Opportunity — Smart Cinema Hits Warp Speed, explores one company’s response. Dr. Jack Q. Gao, founding partner and CEO of Smart Cinema, will discuss how Smart Cinema quickly stepped up to serve billions amid the pandemic and offer perspective on moving forward. Join us May 27!
We may not have noticed yet. The worldwide pandemic has permanently changed the world. I had a feeling when China was shutdown in last January that we can't go back to normal anymore and have to take the new ways to live. By accepting the situation for what it is and owning the solution, we may be able to control, at least, some of the outcomes more effectively. Coronavirus negatively impacted almost of all entertainment and sport businesses whose models depend upon large crowds. Tens of thousands of the movie theatres in China, with the expectation to generate $1.5 billion box-office during the Chinese New Year Golden Week, were suddenly closed and billons of the people were strictly locked inside their homes for months. I took no doubt that this crisis would considerably accelerate the consumer's lifestyle transitions from the "physical" to the "mobile" and our startup SMART CINEMA (Mobile Movie Theatre), a direct-to-consumer mobile platform devoted to exhibit theatrically released movies, should step up and play much bigger roles to serve the demands. As of today, Smart Cinema has screened almost 500 new theatrical films and extended its services from Greater China to North America and South Korea. I do like what Andy Grove said: "Bad companies are destroyed by crisis. Good companies survive them. Great companies are improved by them." and have busily been preparing for the days after Covid-19.
Dr. Gao is Founding Partner and CEO of “Smart Cinema”, a direct-to-consumer mobile platform devoting to exhibit theatrically released movies in Greater China, North America and South Korea.
During 2015-2017, Dr. Gao was CEO of International Investments and Operations, Wanda Cultural Industry Group and also Interim CEO of Legendary Entertainment in Hollywood during 2017.
Previously, Dr. Gao was Senior Vice President for News Corporation and Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. (NYSE: NWS, 2006~2014) and CEO, NWS China Investments as well as CEO, Star TV China Co.
Earlier, Dr. Gao was President of Microsoft China (NASDAQ: MSFT), General Partner of Walden International and Corporate Vice President and President of Emerging Geographies for Autodesk Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK).
Today, Dr. Gao is on the board of AGTech (HKEX: 08279) and AsiaInfo (HKEX: 01675). Previously Dr. Gao was on the AFI (American Film Institute) Board of Trustees and also the board director of AMC Entertainment Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AMC), Legendary Entertainment, France’s EuropaCity, British Sunseeker International, Switzerland Infront Sports & Media AG, World Triathlon Corporation and Phoenix Satellite TV Holding Ltd. (HKEX: 02008). Dr. Gao is on Variety500, an index of the 500 most influential business leaders shaping the global $2 trillion entertainment industry in 2018 and also named by The Hollywood Reporter as Most Powerful People in Entertainment in both 2016 and 2017. Dr. Gao received Year Achievement Award from The Asia America MultiTechnology Association (AAMA) in 2019.
Dr. Gao graduated from the Harbin Institute of Technology and the University of California, Los Angeles with B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in Engineering and has been Adjunct Professor at Business School of Chinese University of Hong Kong since 2011.
China has been a leading destination for businesses and entrepreneurs to expand and grow within their fields in the last four decades. But the recent surveys conducted by foreign business prospects in China, with many citing the impact of COVID-19 containment measures, rising operational costs, and worsening geopolitical tensions as major anxieties.
