Economic Impact

The Canadian arts and culture sector supports hundreds of thousands of jobs and significantly contributes to Canada’s GDP. Investment in this sector creates employment, drives economic growth and enhances tourism, all factors that contribute to a nation’s economic well-being. A thriving arts and culture scene attracts cultural tourists, who tend to stay longer and spend more in the local economy compared to other types of visitors.

Investments in arts and culture significantly enhance local communities by drawing in skilled workers, improving livability, and promoting community wellness. Arts-based neighborhood revitalization efforts not only improve the physical landscape but also foster a greater sense of belonging and well-being among residents. Vibrant cultural scenes act as magnets for skilled workers and are often key factors in relocation decisions, as people are more drawn to dynamic, creative environments.

Many artists argue that emphasizing the economic benefits of the arts can overshadow its intrinsic cultural and creative value. Many economists want “good numbers, very good numbers” rather than appeals to intrinsic value or a public good. In reality, the relationship between artistic expression and economic stability is more interconnected than it may seem. 

Artists thrive when both they and their communities enjoy financial security, as a stable economic environment allows for greater creative freedom and innovation. When arts and culture receive adequate funding, artists can dedicate themselves fully to their craft without financial constraints, leading to a more vibrant and diverse cultural landscape. Moreover, a flourishing arts sector generates economic benefits that, in turn, enhance the financial well-being of the broader community, enabling more individuals to engage with, appreciate, and support the arts.

Canada’s arts and culture industry continues to be a strong contributor to the Canadian economy. In 2020, research from Canadian Heritage revealed that creative industries accounted for 2.7% of the country’s total GDP, generating $55.5 billion in economic activity and supporting approximately 600,550 jobs. This data demonstrates the sector’s role in promoting economic growth and job creation across the nation.

Recognizing the value of cultural exports, the federal government launched the Creative Export Strategy (CES) in 2018, investing $125 million over five years to support over 1,900 creative businesses. Due to its success, the CES has continued with dedicated funding streams for export-ready and early-stage international ventures, ensuring Canadian creative industries remain competitive.

Provincially, arts investments also yield significant returns. In 2022, Ontario’s culture sector accounted for 4.1% of provincial employment, surpassing real estate, automotive, manufacturing, forestry, and mining. Additionally, for every dollar invested by the Ontario Arts Council, $25 is generated in other revenue streams, further strengthening the economy.

Canada’s arts and culture industries have a major impact on Canada’s overall economic well being. Communicating this effectively creates a strong justification for continued funding. Policymakers, businesses, and the public are more likely to support the arts when they understand its tangible contributions to GDP, job creation, and tourism. When decision-makers see the arts as a strategic investment rather than an optional expense, it strengthens the sector’s long-term stability. By demonstrating how cultural investments drive economic growth, arts advocates can secure sustainable funding and policies that foster a thriving creative sector.