Nansha District in Guangzhou has launched a new model to enhance local public services by engaging residents, social groups, and businesses as "community partners." The initiative was highlighted on November 18 at the China Economic Forum, where district leaders stated that the goal is to make government services more responsive and people-focused.
Since July 2024, Nansha has introduced the scheme across all 10 towns and 168 villages in the district. The program identifies community needs, unused public spaces, and potential service projects, then matches them with partners who can provide solutions. Support systems—including performance evaluation, financial incentives, and clear exit rules—are designed to keep projects sustainable.
The initiative encourages mixed funding, with public programs, low-cost services, and market participation all working together. Income generated from community projects is reinvested locally.
So far, 326 community partners have been formed, serving more than 408,000 residents. Over 31,000 square meters of idle community space have been put back into use, and the scheme has raised more than 20 million yuan in social investment. Public participation in local affairs has increased from 23% to 68%, offering a model of grassroots governance that supporters say could be expanded to other regions.
Reporter: Yu Yanling
Photo: Organizing Committee of 20th China Economic Forum
Editor: Huang Qini, James Campion, Shen He
