In the St. Louis Business Journal: The Arts Contributed $868M to St. Louis Economy in 2022

February 15, 2024

As seen in the St. Louis Business Journal recently, the arts spark economic development, bring millions of tourists to the region and have put St. Louis on the map as a leading arts and culture destination.

As St. Louis positions itself as a great place to work, live and play, the arts and culture sector plays a vital role. According to the recent Americans for the Arts – Arts and Economic Prosperity 6 study (AEP6), the sector contributes nearly $868 million in economic impact in St. Louis City and St. Louis County. The study was conducted in partnership with the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis (RACSTL), the largest public funder of art and culture in the region.

“The economic and social impact the arts and culture sector has on St. Louis is undeniable,” said Vanessa Cooksey, RAC president and CEO. “Our nonprofit organizations contribute the local economy every day – employing thousands of people, creating unique and high-quality experiences for millions of attendees, and through daily operational expenditures.”

CLICK HERE to read the St. Louis Business Journal article for free and learn more about how the arts and culture sector is big business in St. Louis.