His company, now one of the largest of its kind, received a five-million-yuan government-backed loan amid financial struggles a few years ago.

"Policy support means the most when it throws you a lifeline in difficult times," Liu added.

The latest policy package to attract new talent to Hunan offers free temporary accommodation up to 14 days, low-rent transitional housing and subsidized home purchases. Eligible graduates relocating to Changsha may receive a one-time subsidy of up to 30,000 yuan. In addition, the province has also established a 505-million-yuan investment fund for university student entrepreneurs.

Hunan native Li Qian, a master's student at Zhejiang University of Technology, secured a job contract with a local company at the job fair.

"I've always wanted to go back and help build my hometown," she said.