The Economic Case for Investing in the Arts

Recent coverage from WBUR on arts funding in Massachusetts argues that public support for arts and culture is a key driver of economic activity, especially in less populous areas of the country. The article points to rural areas of Massachusetts as an example: " cultural organizations in and around Shelburne, [a largely rural area that was deemed a cultural district], support approximately 325 jobs and generate $7.6 million in economic activity, which includes spending household incomes and local and state government revenue."

Small cities across the country benefit from a vibrant arts scene not only for the aesthetic value, but for the catalytic boost to local civic life. "Holland, Michigan, has developed its downtown with walking and biking paths, public parks and a waterfront venue for outdoor public concerts. Residents of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, extol the city’s arts scene as one reason why 'high school kids say they would like to stay or return one day.' Eastport, Maine, with less than 1,500 residents, is leaning hard on its shipping port, the power of its offshore tides to generate renewable energy, and the arts to revive its economy."

Learn more and read the full article here.

 

Published: August 13, 2018