[China Times News] New Entrepreneurship Models Emerge with Focus on ESG and Digitalization This year, a total of 21 new entrepreneurship models, both domestic and overseas, were announced. Despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, the number of participants and winners reached a record high, with the selected enterprises showcasing excellence in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and digitalization. The "44th Republic of China Entrepreneurship Model Awards and the 30th Overseas Chinese Entrepreneurship and Mutual Aid Awards," organized by the National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Association, took place at the Grand Hotel Taipei on December 2. The association noted that despite the global economy being in a gradual recovery phase following the pandemic's impact, participation in nominations, both domestically and overseas, was remarkably enthusiastic. This enthusiasm resulted in a record number of overseas candidates and winners. Ultimately, 11 domestic and ten overseas entrepreneurs were selected as entrepreneurship models. The list of 21 entrepreneurship models includes pioneers like Ubitus Technology, a global telecom white box leader; Xiangpu Industrial, an innovative Taiwanese agricultural and food enterprise; COMEBUY, a prominent domestic chain of tea beverage brands; Jinyuanfu, Asia's largest plastic vacuum forming container manufacturer; Show Chwan Health System, the most renowned private healthcare system in the country; Kuo Wei Precision, the world's largest knife manufacturer; and Yong Hong International Biotechnology, Taiwan's largest animal pharmaceutical company. Furthermore, it includes innovative companies such as Rich-Tai Technology, TangYa, Daji Auto, and Qiding Technology. From the United States, there are recognizable names like Kizuki International, a Japanese ramen chain; Adesso, the third-largest computer peripheral equipment manufacturer in the United States; and Ethan Allen, a well-known furniture retailer. Representing Vietnam are Buildmax Industrial and Kim Bien, while Thailand is represented by Thai President Holdings and Lian Yu Gas Industrial. Malaysia has East Chem and SJ Group on the list, and Japan is represented by Toho Trading. These awardees are prominent enterprises in various global industries, showcasing their strong innovation and management capabilities in 2021. Premier Su Tseng-chang, who was present at the award ceremony, emphasized that the selection of entrepreneurship models not only serves to recognize and promote excellence but also encourages individuals to contribute to society. The awardees have actively contributed to the government's innovation and entrepreneurship policies, demonstrated a spirit of selflessness, and helped promote corporate ESG social responsibility. They have become exemplary figures in the business world. Before the awards ceremony, President Tsai Ing-wen, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Economic Affairs Chen Cheng-chi, Chairman of the Overseas Community Affairs Council Tong Chen-yuan, and Vice Chairman of the National Development Council Gao Xian-gui met with and encouraged all the award winners. They discussed topics such as entrepreneurship, innovation, economic development, and investment environments, seeking the best paths and solutions for mutually beneficial cooperation between the government and businesses. Since taking office as Chairman of the National Innovation and Entrepreneurship Association, Chen Ching-kang has actively incorporated ESG into the association's operations and the selection and assessment of entrepreneurship models. He has also been committed to promoting the comprehensive digitization of application guidelines, nomination documents, and scoring operations. This effort aligns with environmental protection and achieves the association's goal of a fully digitized selection mechanism. The 21 entrepreneurship models selected in 2021 have not only achieved remarkable success in their respective fields but have also outlined comprehensive ESG development blueprints for their enterprises. Their long-standing practice of corporate social responsibility and their deep commitment to ESG principles and actions have demonstrated tangible benefits.

Source: https://www.chinatimes.com/newspapers/20211203000196-260210?chdtv