Vermont reports $120 million annual economic boost from arts and culture sector

The Vermont House Commerce Committee meeting on January 28, 2025, spotlighted the vital role of the arts and culture sector in the state's economy, emphasizing its significant contributions and the need for continued investment.

A key speaker highlighted that the arts and culture sector contributes a staggering $120 million annually to Vermont's economy, accounting for 3% of the state's Gross State Product (GSP) and supporting over 10,000 jobs. This data, sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, underscores the economic importance of the creative economy.

The discussion also referenced a 2022 study by Americans for the Arts, which revealed that 1.4 million attendees participated in nonprofit arts and cultural events in Vermont. Notably, 75% of these attendees traveled from outside the county, showcasing the sector's ability to attract visitors and stimulate local economies. Local attendees spend an average of nearly $30 beyond ticket costs, while non-locals spend around $52, which includes expenses for travel and accommodations.

The meeting emphasized that investing in the arts not only bolsters economic growth but also fosters vibrant communities where people want to live and work. The introduction of an economic impact calculator for arts organizations was also discussed, allowing them to quantify their contributions based on attendance and budget, further reinforcing the argument for supporting the creative sector.

As Vermont continues to navigate its economic landscape, the message from the committee is clear: investing in arts and culture is essential for both economic vitality and community development.