“I was charged with estimating the economic impact of the arts and culture sector here in the greater grand rapids area.”
A survey by Grand Valley State University economics professor Christian Glupker and the Seidman College of Business used data from non-profits and visitor responses to calculate the economic impact of arts and culture.
“How much are they spending on meals hospitality transportation did you buy gas while you went to this event in the area and other retail shopping.”
And after adding it all up:
“We have a 298-million-dollar economic impact by the Grand Rapids area arts and culture sector.”
Which does not surprise Grand Rapids City Commissioner Kelsey Perdue.
“I think confirms what we already suspected that this industry is really important and has an economic impact”
The survey estimates arts and culture drew about 2-point-7 million visitors last year to Greater Grand Rapids.
“What would you have done if that event was not available 71 percent said they would not have come to this region if it wasn’t for that activity.”
And to staff arts and culture activity:
“Just shy of 2500 jobs are supported by the arts and culture sector.”
And along with the economics Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss says there are also quality of life considerations
“It makes us a great place to live.”
