Economic Impact of the Arts

As an industry, the arts sustain jobs, generate government revenue and drive our creativity-based knowledge economy.

When we invest in the arts, we are not supporting a frill or a luxury. The arts are the cornerstone of tourism and economic development. 

In the nine counties served by Lakes Region Arts Council, nonprofit arts organizations are a significant industry segment, generating $13.5 million in annual economic activity. This spending - $5.3 million by nonprofit arts organizations and an additional $8.2 million in event-related spending by arts audiences - supports about 450 jobs and delivers more than $1.6 million in government revenue.