The city of Yantai, Shandong province, announced eight new services, including training, guidance and financial support, to encourage "makers' entrepreneurship".

"Maker" refers to creative people, such as inventors and designers, who "make" dreams come true.

Instruments are now available to makers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to support scientific research.

In addition to offering 10,000 yuan ($1,630) loans to student entrepreneurs and 3 million yuan loans to SMEs, Yantai is also building an entrepreneurship college to offer training on market surveys, operation management and risk prevention.

The courses also include simulation exercises to allow trainees to practice running a business, including founding, operations and management. The exercises aim to help makers reduce risks.

Edited by Andrew Ancheta