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What is Arts & Economic Prosperity 6?

The newly released Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) is an economic and social impact study of the nation’s nonprofit arts and culture industry. Building on its 30-year legacy as the largest and most inclusive study of its kind, AEP6 provides detailed findings on 373 regions from across all 50 states and Puerto Rico—ranging in population from 4,000 to 4 million—and representing rural, suburban, and large urban communities.

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millions generated for our community

Nationally, the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) study reveals that America’s nonprofit arts and culture sector is a $151.7 billion industry—one that supports 2.6 million jobs and generates $29.1 billion in government revenue. Locally in Cumberland County, we saw $72.2 million in economic activity and over $9 million in tax revenue, which is equivalent to the cost of building almost two Segra Baseball Stadiums.

“The AEP6 report underscores what businesses across the nation have witnessed – that investments in arts and culture not only enhance the quality of life, but also stimulate economic development. By supporting the arts, companies attract and retain talent and create an environment where creativity, businesses, and communities thrive.”

- Paul Washington, Executive Director, ESG Center, The Conference Board 

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over 900,000  visitors

Just imagine selling out the Crown Complex 90 times, which has a main coliseum with 10,000 seats. That would generate $28 million in revenue - $6 million more than the cost of the Cape Fear Regional Theater Capital Campaign. This campaign seeks to expand the theater to include a 60+ dedicated parking lot, rooftop event space, classroom space, and much more.

According to Nolen V. Bivens, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts, arts and culture organizations have a significant impact on the economy. They can employ people locally, purchase goods and services from nearby businesses, and attract visitors, tourists, and new residents by producing authentic cultural experiences. Investing in nonprofit arts and culture can, therefore, help strengthen the economy and build more livable communities.

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1,111 people
employed

Nearly 1,111 jobs have been created, which is approximately seven times the number of employees working in the Cumberland County Library system across its eight locations. At a 5.0% unemployment rate in Cumberland County, these job opportunities are a blessing to many. It's worth noting that creative arts organizations hire contractors for various roles, such as HVAC repair and landscaping. These jobs are life-changing for many people since they provide long-term opportunities to support themselves and their families.

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$1.1 Million dollars worth of volunteering

According to our calculations, 38,231 hours is equivalent to driving across the United States 844 times. Our Arts and Culture volunteers play a crucial role in making our events successful. These local citizens consistently show up and support our arts community with their time, labor, and care. The dedication of our community of local volunteers is truly unparalleled; they are committed to enhancing the impact of the arts, and we are beyond grateful for their support.

Every day, more than 100,000 nonprofit arts and culture organizations in the U.S. make their communities better places to live and work by beautifying cities, fueling creativity, celebrating diversity, and bringing joy to residents. Arts and culture organizations are also businesses. They employ people locally, purchase goods and services from nearby businesses, and produce the authentic cultural experiences that are magnets for visitors, tourists, and new residents.

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