Someone I knew in London 5 or so years ago got a Development Deal with one of the major labels. He stayed in his normal job, but was paid a retainer to not talk to any other labels for a period of time. I don't know how much it was, but the first time the money hit his account he thought he'd been overpaid and called them so they could correct their error - he was told it was the right amount.

They'd give him some studio time occasionally and have him record demos and do showcase performances for various important people. They offered him a personal chef and a personal trainer to tone up.

Last I heard nothing had ever come of the whole thing. No records released, no attempt at publicly launching his career, etc. I assume the money stopped coming at some point.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artist_development_deal