The most recent Arts & Economic Prosperity study (AEP5) provides evidence that the nonprofit arts & culture sector is a significant industry in the Pikes Peak region—one that generates $153.3 million in annual economic activity. This spending—$51.2 million by nonprofit arts & cultural organizations and an additional $102.1 million in event-related spending by their audiences—supports 5,070 full-time equivalent jobs, generates $100.8 million in household income to local residents, and delivers $15.9 million in local and state government revenue. This economic impact study sends a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in the Pikes Peak region’s economic well-being.

These are just some of the findings from AEP5, which was orchestrated locally by the Cultural Office, and conducted in cooperation with Americans for the Arts. Data collection for AEP5 was completed during 2016 (using organizational data from 2015), and the results were released publicly on June 17, 2017 at the annual Americans for the Arts conference in San Francisco. The results of the AEP5 Study were formally shared with our local community at a “Coffee with COPPeR” event on July 12, 2017.

Audience intercept surveying is now underway across our community as part of the new AEP6 study! Results from the AEP6 study will be released in September of 2023. To learn more about the AEP5 findings, please follow the links below: