COPPR at 2026 Creative Industries Summit
The Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region was proud to join creative leaders, artists, advocates, and community builders from across Colorado to share ideas, celebrate successes, and explore how creativity continues to shape our communities. We were especially excited to see strong representation from across our region, including Creative Alliance Manitou Springs, and to celebrate Pikes Peak Region Poet Laureate Ashley Cornelius receiving the 2026 Arts and Advocacy Award.
Throughout the summit, conversations reinforced something we see every day in communities from Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs to Monument, Palmer Lake, Fountain, Woodland Park, and beyond: thriving places are built through authentic local identity, strong relationships, activated public spaces, and a willingness to turn ideas into action. We left energized by the momentum surrounding Colorado’s growing film industry, the increasing recognition of live music as both cultural infrastructure and economic development, and the many ways arts and culture continue to revitalize downtowns, strengthen local economies, and bring people together.
Thank you to Colorado Creative Industries, the City of Trinidad, and everyone who shared their stories, experiences, and vision. We returned to the Pikes Peak region inspired, grateful, and excited for the work ahead.
