Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of Shuyang, a county in Jiangsu, which has successfully attracted over 300,000 young people to return and start businesses, shifting from a history of labor outflow to becoming a vibrant entrepreneurial hub [1][2]. Economic Transformation - Shuyang has risen from being one of the lowest economic performers in Jiangsu to ranking 25th among the top 100 counties in China by 2024, with a GDP that has consistently exceeded 100 billion yuan for five consecutive years [1][2]. - The county has seen a significant reduction in its labor outflow, with the number of migrant workers decreasing from a peak of 450,000 to 180,000 [2]. Return of Young Entrepreneurs - A cultural shift has occurred, where the stigma of returning to rural areas for work has diminished, leading to a 60% employment rate among returning university graduates in the local flower and tree industry [2][3]. - The county has implemented various entrepreneurial policies, including the "Shushang Return" initiative, to attract local entrepreneurs back to invest and start businesses [2][4]. Industrial Development - Shuyang has focused on building a robust industrial foundation, developing three major industrial clusters worth over 100 billion yuan each, which has created over 300,000 jobs [3][4]. - The county has nurtured 1,157 industrial enterprises and 147 national high-tech enterprises, enhancing employment opportunities [3][4]. Support for Entrepreneurship - The establishment of entrepreneurial incubation bases and the "Skills Shuyang" initiative provide comprehensive support for entrepreneurs, including training and certification [4][5]. - The county has launched various programs to cultivate local talent, resulting in 8,200 industry leaders and 54,000 certified farmers [4][8]. Business Environment - Shuyang has prioritized creating a favorable business environment, adopting a service-oriented approach to support returning entrepreneurs, which has led to a "grapevine effect" attracting more businesses [5][6]. - The county's efficient administrative processes have facilitated quick project approvals, encouraging investment from both local and external entrepreneurs [5][6]. Challenges and Solutions - Despite the success, Shuyang faces challenges such as job growth slowing down and skill mismatches, prompting the county to expand into new employment sectors like digital and silver economies [7][8]. - The county has introduced policies to support entrepreneurship, including risk support funds and simplified loan processes, which have disbursed over 1.8 billion yuan in loans in the past four years [8][9]. Quality of Life Improvements - Shuyang is enhancing public services, including education and healthcare, to improve living conditions and attract talent back to the area [9][10]. - The transformation from a "working economy" to a "returning economy" reflects a deeper change in development logic, focusing on industry, service, and environment to retain talent [9].

Core Insights - The 14th Suzhou Cultural and Creative Design Industry Expo successfully concluded, covering an exhibition area of 41,000 square meters and attracting nearly 500 exhibitors from over 40 countries and regions, highlighting the growing significance of cultural creativity in driving consumer spending [1][2] - The event saw over 100,000 attendees, indicating a strong public interest in cultural and creative products, which are increasingly seen as a lever for larger consumption [1][2] - The rise of "small cultural creations" reflects a shift in consumer behavior, particularly among Generation Z, who prioritize emotional resonance and cultural identity over mere functionality in their purchases [2][3] Industry Trends - Cultural creativity is becoming a core engine for enhancing urban cultural soft power, transforming historical and local cultural elements into marketable products that resonate with modern consumers [4][8] - The integration of cultural creativity with industry is creating unique competitive advantages for cities, as cultural parks attract talent and drive the development of related industries [4][8] - The Suzhou Cultural Expo serves as a vital platform connecting creativity, capital, and market, playing an essential role in the growth of the cultural industry [7][8] Market Dynamics - The event showcased a variety of successful cultural products, with many exhibitors reporting sales exceeding expectations, indicating a robust market for innovative cultural goods [9] - Companies are increasingly focusing on blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics to appeal to younger consumers, as seen in the case of Longquan Xili, which integrates Suzhou silk techniques with contemporary designs [9] - The local government is actively supporting the cultural industry through funding and policy initiatives, aiming to enhance the precision of support for major projects and original content production [8][10] Future Developments - Suzhou plans to launch the 2026 Suzhou World Cultural Creative Competition, offering substantial prizes and aiming to attract global talent and innovative works, further enhancing the city's international profile in cultural creativity [10]