DELAWARE TODAY

For more than two years, the Delaware Arts Alliance has worked on the CREATE Plan, exploring the state’s cultural landscape to determine how the arts can help grow the local economy. Photo by Deny Howeth. Courtesy of Clear Space Theatre Company.

Imagine being on vacation, wandering through the cobbled streets of a historic town, where every corner unveils a masterpiece of local artistry. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the melodies of street musicians, inviting you to immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry woven by generations past.

This is the magic that happens when tourism intertwines with the arts, and we at the Delaware Arts Alliance (DAA) believe we can create that same experience right here in Delaware. Can you visualize a future where Delaware’s creative economy thrives, attracting visitors and driving economic growth? We can! The Creative Economy Advancement and Tourism Expansion (CREATE) Plan outlines clear steps to achieve this vision, including policy changes and investments for post-pandemic recovery.

For over two years, the DAA has been working on this groundbreaking report, the first in the nation that explores Delaware’s complete creative landscape at the state, county, and local levels. Developed with input from over 600 Delawareans from diverse backgrounds, the CREATE Plan tackles post-pandemic challenges and provides actionable solutions to strengthen Delaware’s creative economy. There are three major components to the work: an online map showcasing Delaware’s creative assets, economic data demonstrating the importance of the creative sector, and 25 actionable recommendations to address tourism, funding, and other issues related to supporting Delaware’s creative economy.

In an era where innovation and creativity drive economic growth and social progress, supporting the creative economy and cultural tourism is not just beneficial—it’s essential. The creative economy, encompassing sectors such as arts, culture, media, and design, plays a pivotal role in fostering community identity, promoting economic development, and enhancing the quality of life. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, it is crucial for policymakers, business leaders, and the public to recognize and support this dynamic sector.

Did you know Delaware’s creative economy is a jobs engine, supporting over 18,500 jobs statewide? This includes:

• 10,520 direct jobs in creative fields like design, performing arts, etc.
• 4,021 indirect jobs supporting the creative sector, like suppliers and printers.
• 4,010 induced jobs created by spending within the creative economy, like restaurants near art venues.

Delaware’s creative economy generated an impressive $3.7 billion in output. Additionally, our sector has an impressive output multiplier effect. For every $1 generated by the sales of goods and services in the creative economy, an additional 60 cents is generated locally across other industries. This shows how investment in the creative sector fuels broader economic growth throughout the state.

Supporting the creative economy is crucial for fostering innovation, cultural diversity, and economic resilience. By investing in the arts, design, media, and other creative industries, we nurture talents that bring fresh perspectives and groundbreaking ideas to the forefront. These industries not only contribute significantly economically but also enhance the quality of life by enriching our cultural experiences and promoting social cohesion.

Moreover, the creative economy is a key driver of job creation, providing employment opportunities across a wide range of skill levels and demographics. By championing the creative sector, we can build more vibrant, inclusive, and adaptable communities that are well equipped to thrive in an ever-changing global landscape.