"The launch of this startup incubator demonstrates Illumina's commitment to supporting the development of China's genomics industry and is a vital part of the company's long-term localization strategy," said Li Qing, Vice President and General Manager of Greater China at Illumina. "By leveraging this first-of-its-kind platform, and together with Sequoia Capital China, we will continue to grow China's biotechnology innovation and business presence, as well as foster groundbreaking discoveries with the aim to help millions of patients in China and around the world."

The startups selected for the inaugural funding cycle are:

Mobidrop Biotechnology, a medical device and research tools company developing cutting-edge, single-cell sequencing microfluidic technologies for molecular diagnostics applications.

Sequanta Technologies, a multiomics company committed to building DNA, RNA, epitome, and proteomics technology platforms for research and clinical applications.

"Paying close attention to healthcare sector since our inception, Sequoia Capital China has built up years of experience in this field and developed a systematic portfolio," said Yibo Cao, Managing Director of Sequoia Capital China. "Through the Sequoia Capital China Intelligent Healthcare Genomics Incubator, Powered by Illumina, we look forward to working together with Illumina to translate outstanding scientific research achievements into industrial applications, to fuel the momentum of entrepreneurship and innovations in China."

Startups will be selected twice a year to join the incubator for a six-month funding cycle. Sequoia Capital China will provide them with access to investment and business guidance, and they will work with Illumina sequencing systems and reagents in a fully operational lab space, accessing Illumina's genomics and business expertise.

"The launch of this incubator marks a new chapter for genomics startups and entrepreneurs in China," said Amanda Cashin, Ph.D., co-founder and Global Head of Illumina For Startups. "Together with Sequoia Capital China and leading genomics entrepreneurs, we look forward to unlocking the power of the genome to improve human health in China and beyond."

Applications for the second funding cycle are open until March 1, 2022. To learn more, please visit the application website.