On November 4th, the inaugural phase of the "HE Research Fellowship" program was officially launched, marking the first funding project since the establishment of the HE Science Foundation. Simultaneously, the official website of the HE Science Foundation (http://heprize.org) went live, opening the online registration and nomination review channels.

The program invites nominations from designated institutions by the HE Science Foundation, targeting young scientists who have obtained a Ph.D. degree and are working full-time at Chinese universities or research institutes.

The program aims to encourage and support young scientists who are engaged in innovative applied research and interdisciplinary applications in scientific exploration, technological breakthroughs, and engineering practices in the early stages of their careers. Their significant research breakthroughs and application outcomes are expected to address challenges in medicine and life sciences, energy, environment, and climate change, aligning with Mr. He Xiangjian's call for young people to "dedicate themselves to scientific research."

The program adheres to the principles of public welfare, maintaining objectivity, fairness, and impartiality in the nomination, review, and awarding processes. It upholds the independence, professionalism, and authority of expert reviews. Each year, no more than 20 individuals are selected, with each project receiving funding of 2 million RMB, distributed over three years.

The HE Science Foundation is a philanthropic fund established with a personal donation of 3 billion RMB by Mr. He Xiangjian, the founder of Midea Group. It was officially announced at the opening ceremony of the Greater Bay Area Science Forum in May 2023. The foundation is set up under Guangdong Meize Technology Development Co., Ltd. and managed by the Meize Science Development Center in Shunde District, Foshan City.

"Establishing the science foundation is to help more scientists dedicate themselves to research, encouraging young people to actively participate in the nation's scientific progress and innovation," Mr. He Xiangjian expressed his expectations for the science foundation through a video message during its launch in 2023. He stated, "The strength of the nation and economic prosperity depend on scientific development," and establishing the foundation is his "responsibility" and "duty." Besides supporting outstanding researchers, he hopes to have an impact on society, especially on young people, for passion and pursuit of science.

Throughout his entrepreneurial journey, Mr. He Xiangjian has always been grateful to the great nation, its people, and the era. He has long been committed to charitable and public welfare activities in various fields, including basic education, culture and arts, rural revitalization, targeted poverty alleviation, elderly care, health, and innovation and entrepreneurship. He has funded over ten key projects, directly benefiting more than one million people, consistently giving back to the country and society in a low-key and pragmatic manner. Recognizing the importance of scientific development for the future of the nation and humanity, Mr. He Xiangjian decided to establish the science foundation to promote scientific progress, especially breakthroughs in basic research continuously, and to contribute to the scientific community through institutionalized and sustained operations.