Inside Physical AI: Silicon Valley × Shenzhen — 3-Day BFC Innovation Mission 2026
Inside Physical AI: Shenzhen 2026
November 8–10 | Three-Day Core Program
Silicon Valley × Shenzhen: Where AI Meets the Physical World
The next frontier of artificial intelligence is moving beyond screens and into the physical world.
From humanoid robotics and intelligent hardware to advanced manufacturing and global supply chains, Shenzhen offers a unique opportunity to see how emerging technologies move from breakthrough ideas to real-world products — and from prototypes to mass production.
Join Bay Area Founders Club (BFC) for an exclusive, three-day innovation mission bringing together a curated delegation of Silicon Valley VC/PE investors, family offices, founders, and technology leaders to explore Shenzhen's rapidly evolving Physical AI ecosystem.
Through curated company visits, conversations with industry leaders, and firsthand experiences, participants will gain deeper insights into the technologies, talent, manufacturing capabilities, and supply chains powering the next generation of intelligent machines.
This is more than a company tour. It's an opportunity to understand how the future of Physical AI is being built — and where the next wave of investment, innovation, and cross-border collaboration may emerge.
To learn more or schedule a private consultation:
📩 contact@bayareafoundersclub.com
A Welcome Message from Ian Gunther and Dr. Siming Li
Visit our official website:
https://www.insidephysical.ai
Why Silicon Valley Should Be Looking at Shenzhen Again
For the past few years, much of Silicon Valley’s attention has been focused on one question:
How intelligent can AI become?
But the next chapter of AI may be about a different question:
What happens when that intelligence enters the physical world?
Robots. Drones. Autonomous vehicles. Smart glasses. AI wearables. Intelligent consumer devices. New forms of mobility and manufacturing.
This is the world of Physical AI — and it is one reason Silicon Valley should be looking at Shenzhen again.
Shenzhen Is More Than a Manufacturing Hub
Most people in Silicon Valley already know the names.
DJI. BYD. Bambu Lab. EcoFlow. Insta360. HAI Robotics.
But the more interesting question isn’t simply which companies came from Shenzhen.
It’s: Why does this region keep producing them?
Shenzhen brings together an unusually dense ecosystem of engineering talent, components, suppliers, prototyping, manufacturing, research, entrepreneurs, and capital.
Walk through Huaqiangbei, and you begin to see how accessible the building blocks of a new product can be.
Visit the factories and supply-chain companies behind the finished products, and you begin to understand how something can move from prototype to small-batch production to millions of units.
Silicon Valley is exceptionally good at creating new technologies, AI models, software, and companies.
Shenzhen has developed a different but increasingly important capability:
turning ideas into physical products quickly, repeatedly, and at scale.
As AI moves from screens into machines, that capability becomes increasingly important.
Where do the sensors and components come from? How quickly can teams prototype? Which suppliers become critical as volumes increase? Where are the real bottlenecks?
Sometimes, you need to be there to understand the answers.
Going Inside the Ecosystem
This November, a small group from Silicon Valley will travel to Shenzhen for Inside Physical AI — Silicon Valley × Shenzhen.
The goal isn’t simply to visit famous companies. It is to understand the ecosystem layer by layer.
Physical AI & Robotics
Explore robotics, embodied AI, autonomous systems, and intelligent machines.
Research & Innovation
Meet researchers, startups, innovation programs, and emerging founders.
Components & Manufacturing
Go behind finished products to explore components, suppliers, prototyping, manufacturing, and the infrastructure that makes scale possible.
Everyday Physical AI
Experience how robotics, drones, autonomous mobility, and intelligent devices are already entering everyday life in Shenzhen.
The Conversations You Can’t Find Online
The most valuable part of the journey may not be the buildings we enter.
It will be the people we meet around the table.
The trip is being organized by people with years of experience across the China market, including AI, technology, supply chain, and logistics, along with long-standing relationships across Shenzhen’s founder, technology, manufacturing, and supply-chain communities.
Participants will have opportunities to engage with founders, engineers, operators, investors, researchers, and industry insiders who have actually built within the ecosystem.
The conversations can go beyond company presentations:
What worked? What failed? What would they do differently? Where are the real bottlenecks? What is becoming commoditized? Where are the next opportunities emerging?
Because the real value of going to Shenzhen isn’t simply access to companies.
It is understanding how the system actually works.
Silicon Valley × Shenzhen
We believe this should be a two-way conversation.
Silicon Valley brings extraordinary strengths in frontier AI, research, capital, software, entrepreneurship, and global technology platforms.
Shenzhen brings extraordinary strengths in engineering, rapid iteration, components, supply chains, and manufacturing at scale.
Physical AI increasingly brings these two worlds together.
That is what this journey is about:
Understanding what happens when Silicon Valley’s AI ecosystem meets Shenzhen’s physical technology ecosystem.
Program Overview
INSIDE PHYSICAL AI
Shenzhen Innovation Immersion
Shenzhen, China | November 8–10, 2026
Three Days. Three Frontiers. One Innovation Ecosystem.
From globally successful consumer technology brands to embodied AI, humanoid robotics, and the foundational technologies powering intelligent hardware, this three-day immersion offers an inside look at Shenzhen's dynamic innovation ecosystem.
Meet the companies shaping the future of technology, explore emerging business models, and discover opportunities for investment, partnerships, and cross-border collaboration.
DAY 1 | November 8
Consumer Innovation, Global Brands & AI Hardware
Morning | Experience Shenzhen's Innovation Ecosystem
Participants will experience:
Robotaxi: Experience autonomous driving in a real-world urban environment.
Bambu Lab: Explore next-generation consumer 3D printing and digital manufacturing.
Meituan Drone Delivery: Discover how autonomous aerial delivery is transforming urban logistics.
Robotic Coffee Experience: See robotics and automation applied to everyday consumer services.
Afternoon & Evening | Global Brand Forum & Networking Gala
Meet the Chinese innovators building the next generation of global brands.
This exclusive forum brings together category-leading Chinese consumer brands and emerging AI hardware companies to explore how product innovation, technology, and global distribution create internationally competitive businesses.
Through founder insights, industry discussions, and an informal networking reception, participants will gain firsthand perspectives on global brand building, international expansion, and the future of AI-powered consumer products.
16 participating brands confirmed, with additional category leaders and innovative AI hardware companies being invited.
Featured Brands | 16 Confirmed
1. SmallRig
Professional Creator Hardware & Accessories
A leading provider of professional camera accessories and creator hardware. According to the company, its products have appeared in Apple's iPhone launch promotional content for four consecutive years, serving more than 10 million creators worldwide.
2. Insta360 (SSE: 688775)
Intelligent Imaging & Creator Technology
A publicly listed global innovator in 360-degree cameras and action cameras, integrating advanced imaging hardware, AI-powered editing, and a growing creator ecosystem.
3. OBSBOT
AI-Powered Cameras & Intelligent Tracking
An innovative brand specializing in AI-powered auto-tracking cameras, combining computer vision, advanced optics, and intelligent gimbal control for content creation and remote collaboration.
4. Snapmaker
3D Printing & Desktop Digital Manufacturing
A pioneer in modular 3D printing and desktop digital manufacturing. Its Snapmaker U1 campaign raised more than $20 million on Kickstarter, demonstrating strong global demand for accessible manufacturing technology.
5. APEMAN
Global Consumer Electronics
An internationally focused consumer electronics brand known for action cameras and cross-border e-commerce, with a history of strong sales performance in relevant Amazon Germany product categories.
6. Hollyland
Professional Wireless Audio & Video Technology
A leading innovator in wireless microphones, video transmission, and professional communication systems. According to the company, it held the largest share of China's wireless lavalier microphone market in 2023.
7. Olight
Premium Portable Lighting
A globally recognized premium flashlight and portable lighting brand with a strong direct-to-consumer business and community-driven ecosystem. The company reports serving more than 20 million users worldwide.
8. AWOL Vision
Premium Laser Projection & Home Entertainment
A premium home entertainment technology brand specializing in RGB triple-laser ultra-short-throw projectors. Its Aetherion campaign reportedly raised $18.65 million from 7,050 backers on Kickstarter in 2026.
9. ENGWE
Electric Mobility & E-Bikes
A global electric bicycle brand with a strong presence in European and international markets, specializing in foldable and practical electric mobility solutions.
10. TESSAN
Travel Charging & Power Accessories
A global consumer accessories brand known for travel adapters, charging solutions, and popular travel power products sold through international e-commerce platforms.
11. DNSYS
Consumer Exoskeletons & Wearable Robotics
A developer of powered consumer exoskeletons designed to assist walking, hiking, and outdoor activities. Its X1 crowdfunding campaign reportedly raised approximately $1.19 million from 1,612 supporters.
12. Brolan
Robotic Consumer Services
An emerging robotics company developing intelligent shoe-cleaning robots, exploring the application of automation to everyday consumer services.
13. Element Motion (元素跃动)
AI-Powered Personal Care Hardware
An innovator exploring the integration of artificial intelligence with intelligent personal care devices and consumer hardware.
14. Embodied Storm
Robotic Wellness & Physical Services
An embodied robotics company developing robotic massage and wellness solutions, combining physical perception, robotic motion, and practical service applications.
15. Robot Kitchen
Robotic Cooking & Food Automation
An innovator developing robotic cooking systems and automated food preparation technologies for next-generation dining and food service operations.
16. PartGenie.ai
AI-Powered Electronics Supply Chain
An AI-driven platform for electronic component selection, bill-of-materials (BOM) analysis, and hardware supply chain procurement.
DAY 2 | November 9
Humanoid Robotics & Embodied Intelligence
From Physical Perception to Intelligent Action
Day 2 offers an in-depth look at four leading companies representing critical layers of the embodied AI technology stack.
The visits explore four complementary areas: multidimensional tactile sensing and embodied data, robotic locomotion and hardware platforms, embodied foundation models, and the commercialization of industrial humanoid robots.
Morning | PaXini & LimX Dynamics
1. PaXini (帕西尼)
Multidimensional Tactile Sensing, Dexterous Manipulation & Embodied Data
PaXini specializes in advanced tactile sensing, dexterous robotic hands, and large-scale embodied data collection, enabling robots to understand physical contact and interact more effectively with real-world environments.
The company reportedly raised more than RMB 1 billion in Series B funding in March 2026, followed by RMB 1 billion in Series B+ financing in August. Public reports have placed its valuation above RMB 10 billion.
Key exploration: How tactile intelligence and high-quality physical interaction data could unlock more capable general-purpose robots.
2. LimX Dynamics (逐际动力)
Whole-Body Motion Control & Humanoid Robotics
LimX Dynamics develops humanoid and legged robotic platforms, whole-body motion control systems, and embodied intelligence technologies.
Reports of nearly $200 million in financing in July 2026 reflect growing investor interest in general-purpose robotic mobility and physical intelligence.
Key exploration: The technologies enabling robots to move, balance, adapt, and operate reliably in complex environments.
Afternoon | X Square Robot & UBTECH
3. X Square Robot (自变量)
Embodied Foundation Models & General-Purpose Robotic Manipulation
X Square Robot develops embodied foundation models that connect perception, decision-making, and robotic manipulation.
Rather than relying on predefined actions for individual tasks, its approach emphasizes data-driven learning and generalization across diverse physical environments.
Reports in 2026 placed the company's valuation above RMB 20 billion.
Key exploration: Whether general-purpose embodied foundation models can enable robots to learn and perform increasingly complex tasks.
4. UBTECH Robotics (HKEX: 9880)
Industrial Humanoid Robotics & Commercial Deployment
Scheduled Visit: 3:00 PM
UBTECH is a publicly listed humanoid robotics company known for its Walker series.
The company focuses on deploying humanoid robots in industrial and manufacturing environments, representing an important example of the transition from robotic prototypes toward real-world commercial applications.
Key exploration: The economics, scalability, and operational challenges of deploying humanoid robots in industrial settings.
Evening | Robotics Industry Dinner
An intimate evening gathering featuring industry perspectives, technical discussions, and networking.
Invited Talk 1
The Robotics Industry Landscape: Technology Pathways, Key Players & Commercialization
A strategic overview of the robotics ecosystem, competing technological approaches, emerging industry leaders, and the path toward large-scale commercial adoption.
Invited Talk 2
The Next Breakthrough in Robotics: Advanced Materials
An exploration of how advances in materials science could transform robotic performance, efficiency, durability, and physical capabilities.
DAY 3 | November 10
Drones, Intelligent Energy & 3D Perception
Day 3 explores three foundational sectors supporting the next generation of intelligent machines: autonomous aerial systems, distributed energy technologies, and advanced 3D sensing.
11:00 AM | DJI
1. DJI (大疆)
Global Leader in Civilian Drones & Aerial Imaging
DJI is a global leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technologies, integrating flight control, computer vision, wireless communication, imaging systems, and precision manufacturing.
In a specific dataset of U.S. Part 107 commercial drone registrations from 2024, DJI reportedly accounted for approximately 90% of registered drones, illustrating its extensive adoption in that market.
Key exploration: How integrated hardware, software, advanced manufacturing, and global distribution can create enduring technology leadership.
Afternoon | EcoFlow & Orbbec
2. EcoFlow (正浩创新)
Global Leader in Portable Energy Storage & Intelligent Energy Solutions
EcoFlow is a global innovator in portable energy storage, home energy systems, and intelligent power management.
According to Frost & Sullivan research cited by the company, EcoFlow ranked first globally in portable energy storage in 2025, with a 29.3% share by sales value and 22.0% by unit volume.
Its products reach more than 140 countries and regions, serving over 6 million users, while the company continues expanding into home energy systems and intelligent energy management.
Key exploration: The convergence of battery innovation, intelligent energy management, and global consumer technology markets.
3. Orbbec (奥比中光) | SSE: 688322
3D Vision, Depth Sensing & Robotic Perception
Orbbec is a publicly listed developer of advanced 3D sensing and machine vision technologies.
Its portfolio includes structured-light sensing, stereo vision, and depth imaging systems that enable robots and intelligent devices to understand spatial environments, recognize objects, and interact with people.
Key exploration: Why reliable 3D perception is a foundational capability for embodied AI and next-generation robotics.
Late Afternoon | Innovation Debrief & Collaboration Opportunities
A facilitated discussion bringing together insights from the three-day immersion.
Participants will reflect on emerging technology trends, shifts in industrial competitiveness, and potential opportunities for investment, strategic partnerships, and cross-border collaboration.
Evening | Zero-Gravity Flight-Themed Dinner
Conclude the Shenzhen Innovation Immersion with a special themed dinner celebrating exploration, breakthrough technologies, and the future of innovation.
An opportunity to deepen relationships, exchange perspectives, and explore potential collaborations beyond the program.
Beyond the Visits: What Participants Will Gain
Direct Industry Access: Engage with leading companies across consumer technology, embodied AI, robotics, intelligent energy, and advanced manufacturing.
Technology Insights: Understand the critical technologies shaping the next generation of intelligent physical systems.
Investment Perspectives: Explore emerging sectors, business models, and commercialization opportunities.
Global Connections: Build relationships with founders, technology leaders, investors, and innovation ecosystem partners.
Cross-Border Opportunities: Identify potential pathways for collaboration between Silicon Valley and Shenzhen.
INSIDE PHYSICAL AI
Silicon Valley × Shenzhen
Explore the Technologies. Meet the Innovators. Discover What's Next.
Website: https://www.insidephysical.ai
Program schedule, company visits, speakers, and participating organizations are subject to final confirmation and operational arrangements. Company descriptions and financial figures are based on supplied materials and have not been independently verified.
Confirmed Attendees
1. Ian Gunther — Mission Leader, Inside Physical AI
Ian Gunther is a Stanford alumnus, entrepreneur, content creator, and former U.S. National Team gymnast. At Stanford, he became a four-time NCAA team champion and 10-time NCAA All-American, while earning degrees in Product Design and Sustainability Science & Practice.
Beyond athletics, Ian has built a global digital audience with 2M+ YouTube subscribers and billions of views, combining storytelling, technology, and entrepreneurship.
As Mission Leader for Inside Physical AI, Ian will help lead the Silicon Valley delegation into Shenzhen’s AI, robotics, hardware, and advanced manufacturing ecosystem—exploring firsthand how breakthrough ideas move from prototype to production and global scale.
2. Dr. SiMing Li
Dr. SiMing Li is a Silicon Valley technology leader with deep experience across AI, technology products, supply chain, and logistics. A graduate of Tsinghua University, she has worked extensively within Shenzhen’s technology and manufacturing ecosystem, building long-standing relationships with founders, operators, and industry leaders.
For the Inside Physical AI: Silicon Valley × Shenzhen mission, SiMing helps connect participants directly with Shenzhen’s ecosystem—from embodied AI and emerging products to components, rapid prototyping, supply chains, and advanced manufacturing—providing an insider’s perspective on how ideas move from prototype to scale.
Other Confirmed Delegation Participants
3. International Legal & Regulatory Expert: Former Asia Regional Head of DLA Piper, a leading global law firm, with nearly 30 years of experience in cross-border legal matters, international investment, market entry, and regulatory compliance.
4. Silicon Valley Venture Capital Investor: Founding Partner of a Top Silicon VC firm, with investment experience in robotics and technology companies. Specializes in equity restructuring and helping companies navigate geopolitical challenges, regulatory requirements, and cross-border compliance.
5. International Media Contributor & Author: Longtime contributor to The New York Times and other leading international publications, specializing in Chinese technology and U.S.–China relations. Brings extensive experience in international media and global communications.
6. Urban Technology & Smart Mobility Specialist: Industry professional focused on robotics, consumer mobility devices, and exoskeleton technologies. Interested in exploring U.S. market entry, distribution partnerships, and sales channel development for innovative technology products.
and MORE.
Additional distinguished participants have also been confirmed. To respect their privacy and confidentiality, their identities and professional backgrounds are not publicly disclosed.
Before You Go — FAQ
▼ What does the program fee include?
The three-day package includes premium hotel accommodation, curated group lunches and dinners, the full program, private company and factory visits, closed-door sessions, official local transportation, BFC concierge support, and access to the delegation community.
▼ Can participants from outside the United States join?
Absolutely. This is a global program, and participants from any country or region are welcome to apply. We expect a diverse international delegation of investors, founders, executives, researchers, and industry leaders.
▼ What if I don’t need hotel accommodation?
We offer a special program-only rate for participants who arrange their own accommodation. Please contact the BFC team for pricing and details.
▼ Do U.S. passport holders need a visa for China?
Depending on your itinerary, U.S. passport holders may be eligible for China’s 240-hour (10-day) visa-free transit policy. This is a transit policy rather than general visa-free entry, so the itinerary generally needs to follow Country/Region A → Mainland China → Country/Region B, with A and B being different countries or regions. Eligibility also depends on the entry/exit ports and itinerary. Participants should confirm the latest requirements before booking travel.
▼ What about participants with passports from other countries?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Some passport holders may qualify for visa-free entry or other exemptions, while others may need to obtain a Chinese visa in advance. We recommend checking the latest requirements based on your passport and itinerary.
▼ Do I need a technical background?
No. The program is designed for investors, family offices, founders, executives, researchers, and technology leaders. You don’t need to be an AI or robotics engineer—what matters is a serious interest in understanding the Physical AI ecosystem and engaging with the cohort.
▼ Why is the program application-based?
We are intentionally keeping the delegation small and curated. Applications help us understand each participant’s background and goals, create a complementary group, and facilitate more valuable conversations and connections.
▼ What types of companies will we visit?
The mission focuses on the Physical AI ecosystem, including embodied AI, robotics, intelligent hardware, components, advanced manufacturing, prototyping, and supply-chain infrastructure. The goal is to understand the full journey from AI and robotics innovation to prototype and large-scale production.
▼ Is this just a company tour?
No. The mission is designed as an immersive industry program, combining private company and factory visits, closed-door discussions, curated meals, expert conversations, and high-level networking. The goal is not simply to see products, but to understand how Physical AI is actually built and scaled.
About the Bay Area Founders Club
The Bay Area Founders Club (BFC), founded by Dr. Paul Fang in Silicon Valley in 2022 and managed by a dedicated group of Stanford alumni and students, is a thriving community of over 100,000 members, including more than 5,000 startups and over 1000 venture capital firms. With most startups in our network raising $1-10 million, and some exceeding $20 million, our mission is to empower creators who aspire to make a global impact. We provide the essential resources, support, and connections needed to transform visionary ideas into reality.
Unlock insider access and elevate your founder journey — join BFC NOW.
Learn more: https://www.bayareafoundersclub.com