Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 Study Highlights Vital Role of Arts and Culture in Building More Livable Communities Around the Country

Wilmington, Del. (July 1, 2024) – The Delaware Division of the Arts today announced that Delaware’s nonprofit arts and culture industry generated $209.5 million in economic activity in 2022, according to the newly released Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6), an economic and social impact study conducted by Americans for the Arts (AFTA). That economic activity– $148 million in spending by nonprofit arts and culture organizations and $61.5 million in event-related spending by their audiences – supported 3,330 jobs and generated $40 million in local, state, and federal government revenue. Spending by arts and culture audiences generates valuable commerce to local merchants, a value-add that few other industries can compete with.

Building on its 30-year legacy as the largest and most inclusive study of its kind, AEP6 uses a rigorous methodology to document the economic and social contributions of the nation’s nonprofit arts and culture industry. The study demonstrates locally as well as nationally, arts and culture are a critical economic driver of vibrant communities. AEP6 was conducted over 18 months, nationally surveying more than 224,000 audience members and 16,400 arts and culture organizations in 373 diverse communities—ranging in population from 4,000 to 4 million—across all 50 states and Puerto Rico to ensure accurate representation of each arts landscape across rural, suburban, and large urban areas.

Between September 2022 and May 2023, Delaware audiences likely encountered a survey while attending an arts and culture event run by one of the 119 organizations participating.  Over 4,500 audience surveys were collected from across Delaware, the largest number ever collected over the four studies in which Delaware has participated.

“This study reaffirms the value of Delaware’s nonprofit arts and culture sector,” says Governor John Carney. “The $209.5 million generated by the arts in 2022 is a testament to the strength of our non-profit arts community, especially following the pandemic. By attracting dollars to our communities, employing artists and staff locally, and producing cultural experiences, the arts sector plays an important role in making Delaware a better place.”

Nationally, the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) study reveals that America’s nonprofit arts and culture sector is a $151.7 billion industry—one that supports 2.6 million jobs and generates $29.1 billion in government revenue.

“Arts and culture organizations have a powerful ability to attract and hold dollars in the community longer. They employ people locally, purchase goods and services from nearby businesses, and produce the authentic cultural experiences that are magnets for visitors, tourists, and new residents. When we invest in nonprofit arts and culture, we strengthen our economy and build more livable communities,” said Nolen V. Bivens, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts.

“Whenever we share data with policymakers about how the live arts generate economic activity, eyes are opened. As we wrestle with historic underfunding of the arts in the United States, this study shows how tremendously powerful the live arts are in generating economic activity by activating other community businesses. This study is a must-read for policymakers and economic development staff from coast to coast,” shares Al Vincent, Jr., Executive Director, Actors’ Equity Association.

Key figures from Delaware’s AEP6 study include:

• • Estimated attendance to the 119 participating organizations in 2022 was 1.4 million.
  • Delaware’s nonprofit arts and culture industry generates $209,441,661 in event-related spending by its organizations and audiences (in addition to the cost of attendance).
  • The typical attendee spends $43.45 per person per event, not including the cost of admission (a 43% increase over AEP5 (2015).
  • 25% of arts and culture attendees were from outside the county in which the activity took place. They spent an average of $67.47 (a 33% increase over AEP5 (2015). All vital income for local merchants.
  • 88% of respondents agreed that the activity or venue they were attending was “a source of neighborhood pride for the community.” 
  • 90% or respondents said they would “feel a sense of loss if that activity or venue was no longer available.”
  • Volunteers at Delaware’s nonprofit arts and culture organizations donated an estimated 317,299 hours, at a value of $9.4 million.
  • Post-COVID audiences are spending more but traveling less.

To download Delaware’s full 60-page report, click here.  To download Delaware’s two-page economic impact summary, click here.

ngg_shortcode_0_placeholder“Delaware’s arts and culture industry has once again proven itself as a driving force behind our vibrant communities. The study highlights the powerful ripple effect of arts spending, supporting local businesses and making our state a more attractive tourist destination. With $61.5 million in event-related spending by arts and culture audiences, we see the profound impact of these activities on our local economy. This industry isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about creating a thriving ecosystem where creativity and commerce go hand in hand, benefitting both residents and visitors alike,” says Secretary of State Jeffrey Bullock.

“The Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study showcases the lasting impact of the arts on our society. Arts and culture organizations, along with their audiences, contribute significantly to our state’s economy and community pride, enriching the lives of Delaware residents financially and culturally. Beyond the impressive figures, this study reveals the profound connection between the arts and neighborhood pride. A staggering 88% of respondents agreed that the activity or venue they were attending was ‘a source of neighborhood pride for the community.’ It’s a testament to the role the arts play in creating vibrant, connected communities in Delaware,” says Division of the Arts Director Jessica Ball.

“Mayors understand the connection between the arts industry and city revenues. Arts activity creates thousands of direct and indirect jobs and generates billions in government and business revenues. The arts also make our cities destinations for tourists, help attract and retain businesses, and play an important role in the economic revitalization of cities and the vibrancy of our neighborhoods,” shared Mayor Hillary Schieve (Reno); President, The United States Conference of Mayors.

The AEP6 findings echo stories told across the nation during the pandemic. Though severely affected by COVID-19, the arts played a crucial role in social healing and economic recovery. In times of isolation and loneliness, they provided much-needed joy and increased life satisfaction. The arts became an economic catalyst, sparking recovery.

AEP6 represents a reset from its previous versions, establishing a new benchmark in the AEP study series.

• Social Impact: For the first time, AEP6 expands beyond the economic and financial data to include social impact measurements of arts and culture’s effect on the well-being of communities and residents.
• Equity and Inclusion: AEP6 broke new ground by prioritizing equity, community engagement, and inclusivity. With the goal of reducing systemic bias, Americans for the Arts transformed its approach and expanded the inclusion and participation of organizations serving or representing BIPOC- (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) and ALAANA- (African, Latine, Asian, Arab, Native American) identifying communities.

Nationally, the extensive research reveals proportional economic and community impacts among attendees at BIPOC and ALAANA organizations to the overall national average. These findings should initiate new, and escalate existing, critical funding conversations about BIPOC and ALAANA organizations receiving fair and proportional financial support.

Seventeen national organizations partnered with AFTA on AEP6 to amplify the study results and help public and private-sector leaders understand the economic and social benefits that the arts bring to their communities, states, and the nation: Actors’ Equity Association, African Diaspora Consortium, Arts & Planning Division (American Planning Association), Black Legislative Leaders Network, Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations), Destinations International, International City/County Management Association, Independent Sector, National Association of Counties, National Conference of State Legislatures, National Alliance of Community Economic Development Associations, National Independent Venue Association, National Organization of Black Elected Legislative Women, Race Forward, Recording Industry Association of America, The Conference Board, and U.S. Conference of Mayors. By measuring arts and culture’s wide-ranging impact, public and private sector leaders can work together to secure funding and arts-friendly policies that shape more vibrant and equitable communities.

The full report, a map of the 373 study regions, and a two-page economic impact summary for each, can be found at AEP6.AmericansForTheArts.org.

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About the Delaware Division of the Arts

The Delaware Division of the Arts is an agency of the State of Delaware. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. Funding for Division programs is provided by annual appropriations from the Delaware General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.

About Americans for the Arts

The Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study was conducted by Americans for the Arts, the nation’s leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts and arts education. It was supported by The Ruth Lilly Endowment Fund of Americans for the Arts. Americans for the Arts’ 297 study partners contributed both time and financial support to the study. For a full list of the communities who participated in the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study, visit AEP6.AmericansForTheArts.org. For more information, follow us @Americans4Arts

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Contact: Andrew Truscott, Program Officer, Marketing and Communications

302-577-8280, andrew.truscott@delaware.gov

The Delaware Division of the Arts, a branch of the Delaware Department of State, is dedicated to cultivating and supporting the arts to enhance the quality of life for all Delawareans. Together with its advisory body, the Delaware State Arts Council, the Division administers grants and programs that support arts programming, educate the public, increase awareness of the arts, and integrate the arts into all facets of Delaware life. For more information about the Delaware Division of the Arts, visit arts.delaware.gov or call 302-577-8278.

The Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) in partnership with the Delaware State Police announce that beginning Monday, July 8, 2024, the Electronic Speed Safety Program (ESSP) will be active in the I-95/Route 896 construction zone in Newark and will last until the end of the project.

The first 21 days of the program will be a warning period. After the warning period, registered vehicle owners receiving a first offense will receive a base violation of $20.00 and an additional amount is added for each mile per hour over the posted work zone speed limit in accordance with Del. C. §4169(c).

For example, if the captured violation occurs at a speed of 66 mph, the speed violation is $20.00 plus an additional $11.00 which accounts for $1.00 for each mile per hour over the 55-mph posted work zone speed limit, and the assessment of other fees as set forth in Delaware Code for a total of $118.00. Second and subsequent offenses are higher, per Delaware Code. These violations are civil penalties only and no points will be assessed to drivers’ licenses.

The pilot ESSP program took place on I-95 in Wilmington from January 2022 – November 2022 during the Restore the Corridor project. Data from that pilot program showed a 46 percent decrease in total crashes and a 38 percent decrease in injury crashes compared to the same time period in 2021 when construction was also occurring. Overall speeds through the construction zone decreased by more than 5 mph on average after the program began.

Governor John Carney signed a bill in 2023 creating the codified Electronic Speed Safety Program that will now be utilized by DelDOT.

“The I-95/896 interchange project is currently the largest infrastructure project in the state with hundreds of people working in the area. While there thankfully have not been any crashes that have injured workers, we continue to see too many crashes involving vehicles traveling through the work zone. The Electronic Speed Safety Program has shown it reduces speeds, crashes, and improves safety for workers and everyone traveling through the area,” said Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski.

More information about the project can be found at 95896improvements.com.

The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) is pleased to announce the launch of the Social Equity Eligibility Validation Application and Disproportionately Impacted Areas (DIA) Map

OMC is responsible for implementing the Marijuana Control Act in Delaware, which includes a Social Equity License program. Individuals interested in applying for a social equity license must first submit the Social Equity Eligibility Validation Form before July 15, 2024.

OMC has partnered with the Delaware Department of Technology and Information (DTI) and third-party vendor Creative Services Inc. (CSI) to create a Social Equity Eligibility Validation application.   Persons interested in applying for a Social Equity license should use the application on our website: Office of the Marijuana Commissioner – Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (delaware.gov).

Prior to applying for a Social Equity License an individual’s eligibility must first be validated.  There is no charge for this initial validation step.  The goal is to streamline the application process and ensure that potential Social Equity applicants know whether they meet the eligibility requirements under Delaware law prior to the license application period that opens on September 1, 2024, and application fee requirements.

To be eligible for a Social Equity Program license, you must meet the definition of a social equity applicant under Delaware law. 4 Del. C.  § 1336 (as amended by  HB 344 w/ HA1).

A Social Equity Applicant must have at least 51% ownership and control by 1 or more individuals who meet one of the following criteria:

Criteria 1: have resided for at least 5 of the preceding 15 years in an area with high rates of arrest, conviction, and incarceration for marijuana-related offenses. The DIA map reflects the tracts identified by the Commissioner as having high rates of arrest, conviction, and incarceration relating to the sale, possession, use, cultivation, manufacture, or transport of marijuana and can be found here: (https://dshs.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/lookup/index.html?appid=8074e94f0dc64ffd8ccbf2fba4d61f61)

Criteria 2: Was convicted of or adjudicated delinquent of a marijuana-related offense under Delaware law prior to April 23, 2023, except any of the following:

1. Delivery to a minor.
2. Any marijuana offense with a Tier 3 quantity of marijuana as defined in § 4751C of Title 16.

Criteria 3: Had or has a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, or dependent who was convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for any marijuana-related offense under Delaware law prior to April 23, 2023, that would qualify under Criteria 2 above.

For more information on Social Equity Eligibility visit Social Equity – Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (delaware.gov). 

Governor John Carney has proclaimed May as Motorcycle Awareness Month and the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) along with the Delaware Office of Highway Safety (OHS) are reminding motorcyclists and drivers to ride smart and ride safe.

Drivers, do your part and give motorcyclists extra room to stop and maneuver. Always look out for motorcyclists when turning, changing lanes, and at intersections.

Motorcyclists, make yourselves visible by always using your headlights. Wear protective clothing and dress for a crash, not just the ride, and never travel in a vehicle’s blindsight.

Looking to perfect your riding skills? Every year from March through November, DMV offers six motorcycle safety courses for various skill levels, including an instructor-level course for those interested in becoming a certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) RiderCoach.

Course benefits include professional training and up to 15% off your motorcycle liability insurance. Plus, upon course completion graduates are exempt from taking DMV motorcycle endorsement knowledge and road testing for up to six months.

“Most fatal motorcycle crashes involve a vehicle,” shared Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “Making our roads safer for all who travel them involves everyone doing their part. Drivers need to understand motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to see and motorcyclists need to do everything they can to make their presence known. Together we can reduce the number of fatalities and serious crashes on our roadways,” continued Majeski.

“During Motorcycle Awareness Month and throughout the year, DMV gives residents the opportunity to become better riders through our DMV Motorcycle Safety Courses,” said Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles Director Amy Anthony. “Riders of all skill levels can take advantage of the combination of formal classroom and on-cycle training to perfect their skills, gain confidence, and ultimately become safer riders,” said Anthony.

For a list of available courses or enrollment details, visit dmv.de.gov/motorcycles, call 302-744-2658, email motorcyclecourse@delaware.gov, or contact the below for more information.

Last year, 15 motorcyclists were killed on Delaware roadways. As of Friday, May 3, 2024, five motorcyclists have been killed. Always use caution while operating a vehicle or motorcycle. Look twice at intersections, don’t tailgate, and eliminate distractions. For more motorcycle safety tips for both riders and motorists, visit arrivealivede.com.Want to do your part in making our roadways safer? Become a HERO towards zero deaths and sign the safety pledge at BeDelAWARE.deldot.gov.

Help to reach the goal of zero fatalities on Delaware roads and all roads across the nation.
Educate people of all ages, races, and demographics on the importance of driver awareness and taking responsibility for all modes of transportation.
Reinforce the importance of being an aware and responsible commuter and the consequences of when you are not.
Organize programs to create a community promoting safety throughout the state and ultimately the nation.

The Office of the Marijuana Commissioner (OMC) is pleased to announce the launch of the Social Equity Workshop Registration. Social Equity stakeholders are invited to participate in these workshops that aim to provide information to those interested in applying for a Social Equity license in the Delaware adult-use recreational marijuana industry.

OMC has partnered with other organizations to organize these workshops, which will focus on providing an informational overview of social equity eligibility, banking, taxes, legal matters, real estate, and the current state of the marijuana industry in Delaware.

 The criteria to apply for these workshops and licenses are as follows:

• Resided for at least 5 of the preceding 15 years in a disproportionately impacted area as defined in § 1302 of Title 4 A map of disproportionately impacted areas is currently being developed and will be released this summer prior to acceptance of applications.
• Was convicted of or adjudicated delinquent of a marijuana-related offense under Delaware law prior to April 23, 2023, with the exception of delivery to a minor, or any offense involving a Tier 3 quantity of marijuana as defined in § 4651 C of Title 16.
• Had a parent, legal guardian, child, spouse, or dependent who was convicted of or adjudicated delinquent for a marijuana-related offense under Delaware law prior to April 23, 2023, with the exception of delivery to a minor or any offense involving a Tier 3 quantity of marijuana as defined in § 4651 C of Title 16.

All workshops are scheduled from 3:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Presentations will begin at 4:00 pm.

See the dates and locations below:

• New Castle County (6/5/2024) Stanton Campus Delaware Technical Community College (400 Stanton Christiana Rd, Newark, DE 19713)
• Sussex County (6/12/2024) Owens Campus Delaware Technical Community College (21179 College Dr, Georgetown, DE 19947)
• City of Wilmington (6/18/2024) Wilmington Campus Delaware Technical Community College (333 N Shipley St, Wilmington, DE 19801)
• Kent County (6/26/2024) Dover Public Library, 35 Lockerman Plaza, Dover, DE 19901

For more information or to register for the Social Equity Workshop visit Omc.delaware.gov.