The government is launching a loan program for self-employed artists, content creators, and other workers in creative fields. The government has set aside NT$10 billion (US$343 million) for the purpose. The loans are part of a larger loan program aimed at young entrepreneurs.
At a press conference Wednesday, Culture Minister Lee Yung-te said that those aged between 20 and 45 are eligible for the loans, provided they have been self-employed in a creative field for less than five years. Those who apply for the loans must also complete a 20-hour class on entrepreneurship. In addition to conventional visual artists and performing artists, loans are also available for young YouTubers and podcasters.
Lee estimated that there are 35,000 self-employed people working in creative fields in Taiwan. Of these, he said that around 10,000 are eligible to apply for loan.