The Weifang Hi-tech Industrial Development Zone unveiled its latest talent attraction plans recently, with the aim of expanding its pool of skilled professionals.

The two policies include improved benefits for urgently needed talent as well as greater government support for university graduates seeking to start a new business in the zone.

Under the new rules, additional annual subsidies will be provided for bachelor's, master's and doctorate degree holders from 23 universities listed in China's Double First-class Project who fill urgently needed positions in the zone. The subsidies for degree holders are 30,000 yuan ($4,710), 50,000 yuan and 80,000 yuan respectively.

The much-needed occupations list identifies students from 15 majors including the fields of software, photovoltaic, electronic engineering, mechanical design, automation and vehicle engineering. And all are closely linked to the zone's industrial upgrade plans.

Ma Xiangkun, deputy director from the organization department of the zone's working committee of the Communist Party of China, said the committee hopes to provide more tailor-made support policies based on the demands of its businesses.

For new university graduates whose skills do not match those needed on the urgent occupations list, the zone will still provide a 700 yuan to 3,800 yuan subsidy per month per person for the first years of their employment in the zone.

University graduates who want to start their own businesses will also be provided support including office rent exemptions, free startup support consultations, financing matching services, a one-off startup subsidy and property purchase subsidy of up to 250,000 yuan. Startup projects deemed excellent by the committee will be granted an additional 50,000 to 100,000 yuan in funds.

In the past few years, the zone has had success in improving its business environment and attracting talented professionals.

Presently, the zone has attracted 33 experts listed in China's One Thousand Talents Plan, six professionals listed in the Ten Thousand Talents Plan and eight experts recognized by an innovative talent promotion project run by the Ministry of Science and Technology.