Our Focus on the Creative Economy
2024-2029 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for Northwest Connecticut:
In collaboration with the Northwest Connecticut Economic Development Collaborative (EDC), we played an active role in shaping the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). Representing the Arts Council, we advocated for the strategic integration of arts and culture as a foundational driver of economic vitality and regional growth.
The five core focus areas of the CEDS are:
- Addressing the housing needs of the region
- Encourage business growth and expansion
- Support workforce development that aligns with the needs of the regional business sectors
- Increase tourism in the region
- Strengthen the Creative Economy.
Over $30 Million Generated by Nonprofit Arts and Culture Sector in
Northwest Connecticut
In 2023 the Northwest Connecticut Arts Council published the findings of the Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6), an economic and social impact study conducted in partnership with Americans for the Arts.
The study showed that the nonprofit arts and culture industry produced $30,275,630 in economic activity in 2022 and supported over
Latest in Economic Development
Bantam Officially Designated as a State Cultural District!
Phase 1 research findings from the Automation Lab are now available.
After a long pause, the historic Norfolk venue brings back dining and adds new programming.
2025 - Northwest Connecticut Arts Council: Annual Report
Torrington, Connecticut has been ranked nationally among the Top 100 Most Arts-Vibrant Communities in the United States.
The Creative Economy Summit: Art at Work - Driving Economic Vitality Through Culture
DHL marketing initiative — a program that combines the marketing efforts of 21 towns through the Northwest Hills Council of Government — has set aside an initial budget of $2,500 to license locally-created stock photography/videography that showcases the best of this region.
The CT Office of the Arts allocates $66,178 in Supporting Arts Grants to Litchfield County Organizations
New Milford Cultural District Committee celebrates the district's official state designation.
Celebrating Community and Creativity: The Bantam Arts Factory Mural by Danielle Mailer
