The Economics of Arts and Culture

Discuss how the arts sector creates jobs, drives tourism, and boosts local economies across Canada.

Explore how arts engagement benefits public health, schools, and civic life—beyond just economic metrics.

Debate and exchange ideas about ticket sales, merchandise, licensing, teaching, and new ways artists earn income.

Analyze disparities in funding and opportunities for smaller organizations, marginalized communities, and rural creators.

Spotlight crowdfunding, patron models, co-ops, shared spaces, and other creative approaches to financial sustainability.

A lighter space for sharing unexpected ways artists and organizations have sustained themselves, from quirky gigs to creative pivots.

Debate universal basic income for artists, tax incentives, and cross-sector partnerships as ways to strengthen the arts economy.

Share stories and solutions for addressing gig work, job instability, and the need for benefits in the arts sector.

Explore the role and impact of private donors, sponsors, and foundations on arts projects and organizations.

Share experiences, opportunities, and challenges in accessing municipal, provincial, and federal arts funding.

Discuss the impact of rising costs for rent, supplies, insurance, and other essentials on arts organizations and creators.

Discuss the risks and opportunities of digital platforms for artist income, including streaming royalties and online sales.