Study: Creative Sector Generates Billions for Local Economy

Central Ohio's creative sector generates more than $3 billion a year for the local economy, according to a recent study led by the Columbus College of Art & Design and funded in part by the Greater Columbus Arts Council.

Nearly 25,000 people work in the creative sector—defined as the fields of arts, design, performance, media and marketing—in greater Columbus, according to the report, Creative Columbus: a Picture of the Creative Economy in Central Ohio.

These figures are just a few of the findings in the report, released in June, which attempts to present measurable statistics on the size, reach and impact of central Ohio's creative economy. Columbus College of Art & Design spearheaded the project, along with an advisory committee of funders and community leaders. Partners in the project were CCAD, Community Research Partners, and the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. In addition to GCAC, project funders are CCAD, The Columbus Foundation, The Ohio State University, Franklin County and Compete Columbus.

"Creative Columbus brings to light steps that we can take now to support our creative sector and areas where longer-term strategies and research will be necessary," said CCAD President Denny Griffith. "Creative types are drawn to others; they like to be around each other. If we nurture this sector, more will come, and more will stay. If we can solve the health insurance conundrum for creative workers and other small businesses, we will grow this sector."

Modeled after a similar study in Los Angeles, the objective of Creative Columbus was to learn more about the scope and characteristics of central Ohio's creative services industries and occupations.

The study also found that:

• In 2006, the creative industry generated over $932 million in employee income and $67 million in state and local tax revenues.
• Our creative community is civically involved. Between 69 and 96 percent of respondents volunteer their time and skills, nearly double the regional figure of 35 percent.
• Respondents said that the top two factors for attracting and retaining talented people are employment opportunities and the presence of a creative community.
• The 18,303 people employed by central Ohio creative industry employers represent 2.4 percent of all private sector employment in the metro area.

The full report, along with the executive summary, is available on CCAD's Web site.

Photo courtesy of Jazz Arts Group