Even so, Skyview has had help breaking into the market. The company's partner, Dajiang Innovations Technology Co Ltd, is a leading UAV manufacturer based in Shenzhen.

In order to work closely with Skyview, DJI located its software development research center to Guizhou. But the partnership works both ways, and Skyview opened it first drone sales store in China in April. The outlet sells DLT products to customers, and helps with training and after-sales service.

"The rapid development of drones has been a boost for China," Liu Cheng, a professor at Guanghua School of Management of Peking University and director of the school's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said. "The country stands out in drone technology, and there is potential to make further breakthroughs."

Still, there will be challenging days ahead as Zhang and his 15-strong workforce are finding out.

Brand awareness is a key concern as corporate clients prefer famous names. Being located in Southwest China is another hurdle to overcome in attracting talented staff. But Zhang is still confident about the future.

"We need to focus on our current business and accumulate money to support our research and development," he said. "They are the priorities."

Ou Xinfa in Guiyang contributed to this story.