Shanghai unveils 9 measures to support internet content creation

As part of the city's broader effort to strengthen its cultural soft power, Shanghai has introduced a new policy package to bolster support for the creation of high-quality internet content.

The initiative outlines nine key areas of support to foster a strong, innovative, and globally competitive ecosystem for contention creation.

01 Building creative clusters
Shanghai plans to establish dedicated zones in districts such as Huangpu and Yangpu to support internet content creators. These zones aim to offer:

• A hub for creative enterprises and talent
• Integrated ecosystem
• Supportive policies
• Comprehensive services

Exceptional public service platforms, incubators, and industrial parks may be eligible for annual financial support of up to 10 million yuan ($1.39 million).

02  Hosting high-level industry events

• The city will organize major events, such as global creators' conferences and innovation competitions, to foster collaboration and visibility.
• Each event may receive up to 30 percent of its total investment, capped at 2 million yuan in municipal-level funding.

03 Incentivizing quality content

• A fast-track channel will be established within the clusters to safeguard creators' legal rights.
• Creators who tell stories about Shanghai or China well may receive up to 100,000 yuan per project and be prioritized for city- or national-level recognition.
• Projects that incorporate advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence in content creation, may receive funding covering up to 30 percent of their total investment, with a ceiling of 20 million yuan.

04  Strengthening financial support
A dedicated fund will support development across the industry chain and assist entrepreneurial content creators.
A green loan channel, developed in partnership with banks focused on cultural and creative sectors, will offer:

• Preferential guarantees
• Interest subsidies of up to 50 percent of the current loan prime rate
• Innovative financing based on copyright pledges

05  Improving industry support services

• Shared office and networking spaces will be made available.
• A public resource list will be published, enabling creators to apply for scenario/facilit usage subsidies of up to 500,000 yuan per year.
• "Creator housing" will be developed to provide affordable accommodation.
• Platform companies will be encouraged to offer traffic support (algorithmic promotion & exposure guarantees), funding, and other services.

06  Unlocking urban resources for content creation

• Landmark locations will be opened for content production, including tourist attractions, museums, specialty shopping areas, and major event venues.
• State-owned enterprises will be encouraged to provide venues and resources.
• Municipal media organizations will be invited to co-create and collaborate with content creators.

07  Promoting global reach

• Creators will be supported in promoting Chinese culture internationally through programs such as the International Communication of Chinese Culture initiative and the Shanghai Silver Pigeon Awards.
• International creators will be welcomed and encouraged to sign with platforms based in Shanghai. They will also enjoy convenience in processes such as visa applications.

08  Attracting top talent

• Outstanding creators who win major awards or effectively promote China's (Shanghai's) stories will receive household registration support.
• Key enterprises and multi-channel networks (MCNs) will be included in cultural enterprise catalogs and supported in their talent recruitment efforts.

09  Enhancing career development

• Creators will be able to apply for professional certifications such as the "All Media Operator" certification.
• Platform companies will be encouraged to take part in vocational skills certification.
• Universities and creative clusters will collaborate to establish internship bases.
• High-quality content creators will be included in city talent programs and honors.
• Shanghai will explore the possibility of including internet content creators in professional title evaluations.

(Sources: "shanghaifabu" WeChat account, IC)
Source: Intl Services Shanghai