Shanghai's Huangpu district is establishing itself as a hub for online content creators, offering a comprehensive suite of support policies, dedicated workspaces, and tailored housing solutions.

The initiative aligns with Shanghai's broader "nine measures" talent policy to support high-quality internet content creation. Building on that framework, Huangpu has introduced its own set of "10 measures", which for the first time include internet content creators in the city's official talent introduction system. The move creates a clear pathway to residency, housing support, and career development.

Xiao Bin, the influencer behind the "Xiao Daye" account, became the first creator to obtain a Shanghai household registration booklet under this new policy. He praised the district's talent bureau for its "warmth and efficiency", saying that the process streamlined what had once been complicated procedures and allowed the application to be completed from home.

Beyond residency support, Huangpu is providing professional infrastructure to help creators scale their business. The Bund FTC creative space on Jiujiang Road offers subsidized offices, high-end production equipment, and business support services, lowering operational costs for small teams.

Zeng Xiaoqin, CEO of Chuanying Xuhe Media, highlighted the government's "intangible assistance", including event promotion, faster permit approvals, policy guidance, and resource connections, all of which has played a role in facilitating projects.

For both Xiao and Zeng, the workplace offers not only professional support but also a community of like-minded individuals. To further improve services, the Bund FTC provides free access to professional equipment, including cameras, lights, and streaming gear, significantly reducing production costs.

Such efficiency, district officials said, stems from an integrated operational model that combines administrative, financial, and community functions. The system delivers more than 100 specific services across six categories, ranging from policy consultation and business support to travel, residency, and dining.

To meet the living needs of creators, Huangpu has launched dedicated talent apartments. The newly launched Suhe Meixin apartments, located along Suzhou Creek, are both a pilot product under Shanghai's commercial-to-residential conversion program and the city's first housing development designed for content creators. Among the first residents, property blogger Xie Yixian highlighted the apartments' strategic location for filming and layouts designed for both individuals and small teams.

Looking ahead, Huangpu is also focusing on career sustainability within emerging industries, addressing gaps in standards, certification, and professional advancement. The district is partnering with platforms such as RedNote to explore official vocational certification for roles including online marketing specialists, aiming to establish clearer career pathways for digital creators.

Sources: Shanghai Observer, the paper.cn