Ningbo University of Technology Air Dome Sports Center: A Model for University–Enterprise Partnership and Community Resource Sharing

A Benchmark University–Enterprise Partnership

Built by Broadwell Air Dome, the Ningbo University of Technology Air Dome Sports Center is a successful example of university–enterprise collaboration in educational infrastructure.

In July 2024, Ningbo University of Technology selected Ningbo Xingming Badminton Club Co., Ltd. through a public tender process. The two parties entered into a 20-year cooperation and operation agreement, and construction officially began on July 23, 2024.

Located on the former outdoor sports grounds in the northeast corner of the university’s Fenghua Campus, the project includes:

• a. Two new air-supported sports halls with a combined area of approximately 7,000 square meters
• b. A two-story auxiliary building of approximately 1,400 square meters
• c. A comprehensive renovation of surrounding campus sports facilities

At the groundbreaking ceremony, Feng Jianbo, Secretary of the University Party Committee, noted that the project would create a better educational environment while introducing private-sector capital into the renovation, construction, operation, and maintenance of campus facilities.

The model eases funding pressure on the university, brings in professional venue operation expertise, and has become a benchmark for university–enterprise cooperation in Ningbo’s higher education sector.

A Demand-Driven Solution Powered by New Technology

The university’s decision to adopt air dome sports facilities was driven by real demand.

In recent years, Ningbo University of Technology has continued to grow in both enrollment and student quality. At the same time, demand for diverse sports activities has increased significantly. Outdoor sports grounds are vulnerable to weather, while indoor venues are limited, making it difficult to meet the all-weather fitness needs of students and faculty.

By introducing social capital and adopting air dome construction, the university quickly addressed this infrastructure gap with an innovative, efficient solution.

Compared with conventional sports halls, air-supported structures offer clear advantages:

• a. Faster construction
• b. Lower investment cost
• c. Greener, more sustainable operation

After evaluating multiple suppliers, the university chose Broadwell for its proven strengths in air dome safety, structural stability, and operational energy efficiency.

A Landmark Air Dome Project in Ningbo

The complex adopts Broadwell’s third-generation air dome technology: the Bias-Pro diagonal orthogonal steel cable net system, a leading solution for safety and structural stability.

As the first permanent air dome sports facility among universities in Ningbo, the project is a regional milestone. It is not only an upgrade to campus sports infrastructure, but also a practical example of Ningbo’s policy to open public and school sports facilities to the wider community.

While prioritizing daily teaching needs, the venue is open to the public by reservation during holidays, maximizing the value of campus sports resources.

This “teaching on weekdays, sharing during holidays” model offers a replicable approach for universities in Ningbo and across Zhejiang Province. It also supports the development of public fitness services and helps encourage wider community participation in sports.

A Sports Paradise for Campus Users and a Neighborhood Venue for Residents

For teachers and students at Ningbo University of Technology, the two air dome halls have quickly become a true sports paradise.

The complex includes:

• a. A 3,150-square-meter basketball/volleyball hall
• b. A 3,640-square-meter badminton hall
• c. Professional courts, training areas, and spectator seating
• d. A 1,400-square-meter integrated facility between the two halls, including table tennis, fitness, shower, and support amenities

The venues maintain stable temperature and humidity year-round. Indoor air quality reaches AQI Level 1, while oxygen concentration is slightly higher than outside, helping create a healthier environment for exercise.

Since opening, the complex has hosted several events, including:

• a. The 2025 Ningbo Education Union Badminton Tournament for faculty and staff
• b. The 2nd “Daoxiang Cup” Badminton Tournament organized by the Ningbo Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs

During holidays, the venue is open to the public by reservation. Nearby residents describe it as a “professional sports venue right on our doorstep.” With convenient booking and all-weather access, the complex has increased participation in community sports while bringing university resources into everyday urban life.

From an innovative partnership model to strong recognition from teachers, students, and residents; from patented safety technology to successful sports events, the Ningbo University of Technology Air Dome Sports Center shows that a well-designed venue can serve far beyond campus — it can benefit an entire city.