Innovation Crossroad: A conversation with Alan Cui

The conversation with Wayne covers his three-act life story, the pivotal moment in his career, and his return home. It also delves into the influence of long-term planning in Asia and the impact of cultural diversity in boardrooms. The conversation covers the perception of governance in Asia, the role of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Australia's connection to the Greater Bay Area, opportunities for collaboration and innovation, representation and collaboration with Asia, investment in Asia, understanding and engaging with China and Asia, the impact of travel and cross-cultural experiences, the competitive culture in Asia, the innovation ecosystem in China, and advice for Australian startups seeking opportunities in Asia. It emphasizes the importance of strong governance in Asia and the potential for collaboration and innovation in the Greater Bay Area.

Takeaways

• Long-term planning in Asia
• Cultural diversity in boardrooms Strong governance in Asia
• Opportunities for collaboration and innovation in the Greater Bay Area

How did Australian university research become the foundation for 90% of the world's solar panels—all manufactured in China?

In this episode of Innovation Crossroad, we sit down with Professor Nicholas Ekins-Daukes (Ned) from UNSW's School of Photovoltaic and Renewable Energy Engineering to unpack one of the most successful deeptech commercialization stories in history.

Discover how UNSW's solar innovations—PERC and TOPCon technologies—scaled globally through an unexpected path: a "failed" Australian startup (Pacific Solar) that trained a generation of entrepreneurs who went on to build China's solar manufacturing giants like SunTech and JA Solar. With 1,000+ UNSW alumni now leading China's solar industry, this is a masterclass in bridging research excellence with manufacturing scale.

Key topics:

• Why early-stage deeptech appears "uninvestable" (and how to bridge that gap)
• The power of commercial "stepping stones" vs. direct IP licensing
• Navigating the lab-to-factory "manufacturing bridge gap"
• How UNSW's Torch Innovation Precinct connects Australian researchers to Chinese manufacturing
• Real examples from Ned's own solar sensor startup journey
• What "Future Made in Australia" means for the next wave of deeptech

Whether you're a founder scaling deeptech, an investor evaluating cross-border opportunities, or an ecosystem builder connecting innovation hubs, this conversation offers actionable insights on accelerating commercialization through strategic ecosystem bridges.

🎙️ Hosted by: Betty Zhang and Alan Cui, Boson Ventures

Learn more:

🌐 Website: boson.vc

💼 LinkedIn: Boson Ventures

👤 Guest: Professor Nicholas Ekins-Daukes, UNSW

In this episode of Innovation Crossroads, host Alan Cui from Boson Ventures engages in a compelling conversation with Steven Ducat, a seasoned entrepreneur with over two decades of experience in China. They explore the essential elements of building trust and forming successful partnerships in the Chinese market. Steven shares his journey from trading in Shanghai to establishing SPD Asia Group, highlighting the importance of cultural understanding and local team building. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice for Australian startups looking to navigate the complexities of the Chinese innovation landscape.

In this episode of Innovation Crossroad, host Alan Cui interviews Dickie Currer, founder of Hype Man Media and recipient of the Victorian Startup Ecosystem Hero of Year 2025 award. Dickie shares insights from his first trip to mainland China, discussing his observations of the Chinese innovation ecosystem and how it differs from Australia's. He explores Australia's "scale-up problem" and why Australian startups should consider expanding to Asian markets beyond the traditional focus on the US and UK. Dickie also reveals his favorite Chinese cities, misconceptions about doing business in China, and offers valuable advice for founders looking to expand globally. This conversation provides a unique perspective on building bridges between Australian and Chinese innovation ecosystems.⁠⁠​