$1B for Content Creators or Just Another Scam?

Recently, the announcement of a $1 billion creator fund during India’s WAVES Summit 2025 has been marred with controversy over its real impact.

Although the initiative guarantees to empower creators of animation, gaming, VFX, and digital content, whether it will prove beneficial to the creative economy or fall prey to institutional corruption is questioned.

India’s track record of large-scale funding projects always raises doubts about whether transparency and accountability are being compromised. The entertainment and media sectors, already at the heart of a controversy over suspected financial mismanagement, question whether such funds ever actually end up in the hands of grassroots creatives or are siphoned off by middlemen.

Taxpayers’ money is being used, and critics interpret this project as a possible repetition of wasted public money without sufficient checks and balances.

Also, while the WAVES Summit aims to position India as a global media hub, the extent to which of the funds allocated will find a direct place in the creators’ pockets rather than in operational expenses or promotional spending is uncertain.

Earlier efforts by the government have not been very successful, with money going more often to big cities or to select groups.

The $1 billion fund can be revolutionary if it is implemented transparently and equitably. However, without mending systemic inefficiencies and guaranteeing equitable distribution, it can turn out to be another publicity-stumping promise that becomes a hollow gesture.