Ling Zihan facts for kids

Ling Zihan (Chinese: 凌子涵; pinyin: Líng Zihán; born 1987) is a talented Chinese business executive and entrepreneur. She is known for helping women start their own businesses. In 2015, she created a company called TechBase in Beijing. This company was the first of its kind in China. It helps women learn how to create online technology businesses. The BBC even chose her as one of the "30 Under 30" young businesswomen from around the world.

Ling Zihan's Early Life and Career

Ling Zihan studied at Peking University's School of Government. She graduated in 2008. After that, she went to the University of Florida in 2009. There, she earned a master's degree in international business. She also studied in Lyon, France, as an exchange student at the Emlyon Business School.

After finishing her studies, Ling worked for different Chinese companies. She focused on marketing and planning. Some of these companies included Changyou and Baidu.

Helping Young Women in Business

Ling became an important part of Lean In Beijing. This group was started by Sheryl Sandberg. Its goal is to help young professional women succeed. While working on a project there, Ling noticed something important. Many young women wanted to start their own online businesses. This gave her an idea. She decided to create TechBase. This company would help women develop their skills in technology.

Founding TechBase and "Her Start Ups"

Ling Zihan realized that young women often faced a big problem. It was harder for them to get money to start a business compared to men. She understood that if women didn't become good with the internet, their future might be at risk.

So, when she started TechBase in 2015, she quickly organized an event. It was called "Her Start Ups." This was a competition for new businesses. Nearly 100 teams joined the competition. Ling worked hard to get money and technical help for these teams. She visited many companies to get their support. She successfully raised 50 million yuan, which is about U.S. $7.7 million, to help these new businesses.

TechBase's Impact and Future

Today, TechBase works with over 50 investment companies. These companies and other service groups are ready to help women. They provide support to women who want to start their own businesses.

Because the 2015 "Her Start Up" competition was so successful, it was planned again. In June 2016, the competition was set to happen in Beijing. It was also planned for other big cities in China.

Awards and Special Recognition

Ling Zihan has received important awards for her work. In November 2015, the BBC included her in their "30 Under 30" list. This list celebrates successful young women entrepreneurs. She was also named one of Forbes' 2015 Asian "30 Under 30" social entrepreneurs. This means she was recognized for using business to make a positive difference in society.