Arts & Economic Prosperity (AEP) 6 was built upon its predecessors from 1994, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017 by quantifying the impact of the arts on jobs, government revenues, and tourism. AEP is the largest study of its kind and results have shown that the arts are more than just a formidable economic presence. The arts are economic catalysts that actually accelerate economic recovery. A growth in arts employment causes a growth in all employment. With new and current data, AEP6 will continue to be the potent advocacy tool needed to keep the arts and arts education funded. 

The Greater Augusta Arts Council began conducting AEP6 surveys in Augusta in 2022 and concluded our collection in Summer 2023. Results of those surveys will be shared at the Arts Day Luncheon.

The previous Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 study provided evidence that the nonprofit arts and culture sector is a significant industry in the Greater Augusta Area—one that generates $44.2 million in total economic activity. This spending—$17.5 million by nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and an additional $26.6 million in event-related spending by their audiences—supports 1,616 full-time equivalent jobs, generates $29.3 million in household income to local residents, and delivers $3.9 million in local and state government revenue.  These types of economic impact studies send a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in the Greater Augusta Area’s economic well-being.

 For more information about Arts programming in the Augusta Region visit AUGUSTAARTS.COM.