WHAT DO WE HOPE TO ACHIEVE?
The Delaware Arts Alliance is taking a groundbreaking step by creating the “Creative Economy and Cultural Tourism Recovery and Growth Plan” to foster growth in the arts, culture, and tourism sector. The first of its kind in the nation, this effort will engage hundreds of Delawareans from diverse backgrounds to produce a shared vision, advocacy tools, and actionable policy agenda for advancing Delaware’s creative economy across state, county, and local governments.
Our aim is to develop the “Creative Economy and Cultural Tourism Recovery and Growth Plan” as a clear roadmap that outlines the necessary policy changes and investments required for the sector’s success – including nonprofits, for-profit businesses, and individual artists. Supporting the creative economy is a key strategy for addressing various economic, social, and policy issues within the state, and is crucial for the state’s tourism and economic recovery.
We now have the opportunity to imagine our state beyond recovering from the impacts of COVID-19 and focus on the strategic growth and long-term sustainability of a locally produced creative sector. Through data analysis, policy benchmarking and regulatory review, and thorough community engagement, we are excited to produce a plan that builds upon Delaware’s strengths and successes and removes barriers for creatives.
PROJECT SCOPE
The expected deliverables of The Plan are as follows:
- An online interactive Asset Map: An interactive map that showcases the various arts and culture infrastructure in the state. This GIS map will serve as a resource for government agency planning and for individuals to explore the artistic and cultural offerings within Delaware.
- Economic Impact Study: A comprehensive study to assess the economic impact of the creative economy including its influence on tourism in the state.
- Policy Analysis/Agenda: A comprehensive policy analysis and agenda for the state of Delaware, all three counties, and six specific cities/towns (Wilmington, Dover, Georgetown, Smyrna, Middletown, and Milford). This analysis will highlight implementable policies that can attract, retain, and support talent, and create an environment conducive to the growth and success of creative industries.
This effort places special emphasis on very small businesses, women-led and minority-led initiatives, and the general workforce. The project focuses on both nonprofit and for-profit organizations and individual artists in the arts and culture sector. This includes a wide range of disciplines such as visual arts, dance, music, theater, filmmaking, photography, design, and other creative forms.
TIMELINE
In the fall of 2022, internal planning for the project commenced, followed by an initial launch to stakeholder groups in early 2023. Community engagement activities and a press event are scheduled for the summer and fall of 2023. The finalized plan is expected to be delivered by the spring or summer of 2024.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
The DAA will oversee the project and actively engage the community through various channels. This will involve collaborating with chosen technical consultants, establishing a local steering committee, and appointing Community Engagement Captains who will represent diverse creative networks. These individuals will play a key role in conducting focus groups, surveys, and outreach efforts across the state to gather valuable input and involve the community in the project. Help us by completing this survey!
HOW IS THIS FUNDED?
Announced by Governor Carney in February 2022, the DAA, received funding from ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) through the Delaware Division of Small Business. This funding is a part of the Economic Development Administration’s (EDA) American Rescue Plan Travel, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation program. The EDA program provides grants for the purpose of advancing the economic recovery and resilience of communities that were severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic in the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation industries.
DAA is also supported financially by the Longwood Foundation, The Welfare Foundation, The Delaware Division of the Arts, the Department of Education, and the contributions of our member organizations.
For inquiries, contact Project Manager Chonnie Blair, Project Manager at cblair@delawareartsalliance.org or Neil Kirschling, Executive Director at nkirschling@delawareartsalliance.org
