Hangzhou's Bold Move: $5B Fund and New Policies to Boost AI-Generated Media
Hangzhou Bets Big on AI-Generated Media with New Policies and Funding
Shangcheng District in Hangzhou took a significant leap forward in the AI-generated content (AIGC) arena this week. At a major industry conference on April 16, officials unveiled a comprehensive package of incentives and investments designed to establish the district as a leader in AI-powered audio-visual production.
The Golden Opportunity
The centerpiece of the announcement is the "Golden Ten Measures," Zhejiang province's first dedicated policy framework for the AIGC audio-visual industry. This isn't just another bureaucratic document - it's a carefully crafted set of incentives covering every stage of production, from initial research to international distribution.
"What makes this policy special is its comprehensiveness," explained one industry insider at the conference. "They're not just throwing money at the problem - they've identified specific pain points in the creative process and designed targeted solutions."
Show Me the Money
Financial incentives form the backbone of the new measures:
- Innovation Rewards: Developers working on AIGC tools, AI virtual shooting systems, or interactive narrative platforms can qualify for subsidies up to 3 million yuan per project.
- Quality Bonuses: Content creators aren't left out - productions that make it onto major platforms can receive 300,000 yuan per work, with companies eligible for up to 1 million yuan annually.
But cash isn't the only carrot. The district simultaneously launched a massive 5 billion yuan "Cultural Three New" industry fund, specifically earmarked for audio-visual ventures. This financial firepower is designed to attract both established players and promising startups to set up shop in Shangcheng.
Building the Ecosystem
Policy and funding alone don't create an industry hub. Recognizing this, Shangcheng officials have taken a multi-pronged approach:
- University Partnerships: Prestigious institutions like the China Academy of Art are now official AIGC research and education bases, creating a direct pipeline for talent and innovation.
- Real-World Testing: A series of AIGC application scenarios were unveiled, helping bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and market-ready products.
- Performance Track Record: The numbers suggest this isn't just wishful thinking - in 2025, the district's 132 major cultural enterprises saw revenues jump 52.6% to 22.23 billion yuan, outpacing much of Hangzhou.
The Big Picture
This initiative represents more than just local economic development. It's a strategic move in Shangcheng's broader "Central Innovation Zone" plan, aiming to create a complete ecosystem where ideas become products, and products find markets.
"We're not just building an industry cluster," said one conference participant. "We're creating an environment where every piece of the puzzle - from funding to talent to market access - fits together seamlessly."
Key Points
- First-of-its-kind policy: "Golden Ten Measures" specifically targets AIGC audio-visual sector
- Major financial commitment: 5 billion yuan industry fund launched alongside generous subsidies
- Ecosystem approach: Combines policy, funding, research partnerships, and real-world applications
- Proven potential: District's cultural sector grew 52.6% in 2025, demonstrating strong foundation
- Strategic vision: Part of broader plan to establish Shangcheng as innovation hub