New Long March 2 wouldn't be possible without the generous support of a large number of companies and individuals, all of whom share our enthusiasm for discovery.

We're particularly happy to welcome back our most important sponsor from New Long March 1, Mr Cao Jian and the Jinglida Photo Studio.

Also back for more is Simon Wong and his Simonsays Advertising Co, who are responsible for all past, present and future design on the New Long March.

Last, but certainly not least in the list of returning sponsors is Beijing This Month Magazine, who now step up to act as our "organizing unit", as they say here.

What's really exciting this time, however, is the number of new sponsors who have joined us – including many of the world's best brands of outdoor clothing and equipment. Our thanks to Bill Werlin at Patagonia, who is responsible for our much-improved sartorial appearance (and also many thanks to Cathy Seow for her hard work in this regard). Also Joe Eberling in Shanghai, whose good offices have brought support from the likes of MSR, Osprey, Princeton Tec, Nalgene, Smith, Montrail, Thermarest, Smartwool and Seal Line.

Sony provides New Long March with its expedition computer equipment, raising our communications and research capacity to a new level. Weighing only around 1.2 kilos, the Sony TX Series is uniquely suited to the demands of the New Long March.

Wrapping up the list of major supporters is Bobby Syed and EMMA Media in London, whose commitment to multicultural communication and exchange has found a reflection in the spirit of the New Long March.