Is it fundamentally important for you to win 200-300 dollars? Will it make you happier or richer? If it happens, I'm just going to go and relax and hang out with good company.
Believe me, no one's goal is to win money, especially 300 dollars, as you wrote. :) It's just that, as numerous examples show, entry fees are necessary for playing at a high or near-high level and for the discipline of the tournament participants. Playing without an incentive or any interest leads to a lack of focus. And I'd like to play against strong opponents and show a decent level myself.
On the other hand, if most people are in favor of entry fees, those who disagree can play among themselves, or watch, or play poker, or drink. There are many options.
I think we can come to an agreement in any case.