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Xiaohongshu reportedly launches internal Darwin project to develop new products
Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform, has launched the internal Darwin project to incubate new products beyond its main app, allowing employees to innovate full-time with executive support and resources, aiming to develop products that could rival its core platform.
Key points
- Xiaohongshu has initiated the Darwin project to encourage internal innovation.
- The program is open to employees who can apply to participate.
- Selected employees will work full-time on new ventures under senior executive guidance.
- Teams will have access to internal resources for product development.
- Successful projects could lead to higher roles in the company, starting at L1 management.
Why it matters
- The initiative reflects a broader trend in tech to foster internal innovation as seen in other successful startups.
- Encouragement of employee-driven innovation aligns with the ongoing shift towards decentralization in product development.
- Similar programs have been implemented in companies like Google (20% time) which have historically fostered significant innovations.
Xiaohongshu's Darwin project underscores the growing trend among companies to leverage internal talent for innovation, aiming to keep pace with market demands and drive future growth.