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 content creation.

1. 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, and 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).

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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, and innovative financing based on copyright pledges.

5. 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 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.

6. 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.

7. 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 greater convenience in processes such as visa applications.

8. 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.

9. Enhancing career development

• Creators will be able to apply for professional certifications such as the "All Media Operator".
• 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.

Source: Official WeChat account of the General Office of the Shanghai Municipal People's Government at "shanghaifabu"