PRIORITY #9: ECONOMIC IMPACT
Leverage Arts & Culture as an Economic Engine
In Akron/Summit, we believe that a vibrant economy depends on a vibrant arts and culture community.
Arts and culture in the Akron metropolitan area is a $1.4 billion industry. Opportunities for growth in arts and culture in Akron/Summit can help financially support culture creators in the city and contribute to overall economic growth.
Together, we have work to do.
Throughout the priorities, you’ll see each labeled with the potential investment required ($ to $$$$) and next steps including, “Implement (I),” “Explore (E),” “Expand (X),” and “Promote (P).”
(Banner photo: The Experience Barber & Beauty Shop; Photography by Shane Wynn from AkronStock.com)
9.1 Assessments & Learnings
Creative Economy Assessment: Explore and implement an assessment of the creative economy in Summit County, with a breakout of data relative to Akron/Summit. In addition to collecting data on items such as major creative industries and occupations and areas of regional specialization, the assessment should result in recommendations for economic development, education, and government partners. (E, $$$)
Support Elevate Greater Akron: Support the Greater Akron Chamber, County of Summit, City of Akron, and GAR Foundation in the work surrounding Elevate Greater Akron by: (X, $$)
Connecting the Minority-Owned Business committee and the Women-Owned Business Committee with artists and creative business leadership;
Being intentional in resourcing black artists as part of the strategy for Opportunity Akron;
Supporting Bounce Innovation Hub and Creative Startups as they explore how to engage and support artists and/or creative businesses.
Regional Arts Economy: Ensure regional economic development efforts not only include, but fully leverage arts, culture, and the creative economy. (X, $$)
Creative Economic Summit: Explore the development of a biannual Creative Economic Summit in conjunction with local arts agencies, cultural institutions and partners, economic development and entrepreneurial support efforts, and education partners. (E, $$$$)
9.2 Corporate Partnerships
Strengthen corporate support of arts and culture organizations throughout the city with authentic partnerships
Artist-In-Residence Program: Develop an artist-in-residence program in which businesses host and provide matching funds to fill a full- or part-time position within departments to inspire creativity or collaboration. (X, E, $$$$)
Corporate Support: Explore innovative opportunities for corporate support of arts and culture, including: (X, E, $$$)
Explore an annual corporate challenge, the proceeds of which would support nonprofit cultural organizations
Support nonprofit cultural organizations in identifying shared asset models that positively impact a business or community organization’s business model, employee engagement efforts, talent development, communication, and professional development as well as contribute to the financial health of the nonprofit.
Support businesses with national and local examples of the economic and social impact of the cultural sector; and
Support artist entrepreneurs in developing effective business models.
Arts and Business Networking: The more authentic relationships established between the cultural sector and the business community, the more Akron/Summit-centric opportunities will be created. Provide programming support that advances these relationships. (X, $$)