Why does Burien need a Creative District designation?
- With the recent pandemic and economic environment, the recently designated Creative District is an opportunity to build our local economy strategically. “The arts generated 4.2% of the overall U.S. GDP, with roughly 4.9 million Americans working in the sector in 2015, the latest year for which data is available. Collectively, those employed in the sector earned over $370 billion, according to the findings. The sector expanded by an average of 2.6% annually between 2012 and 2015, just outpacing the 2.4% growth of the economy overall, according to the report. Between 2014 and 2015, the sector grew at a rate of 4.9% after adjusting for inflation. “The data confirm that the arts play a meaningful role in our daily lives, including through the jobs we have, the products we purchase, and the experiences we share,” said NEA chairman Jane Chu in a statement.”
- It provides Burien with a strong identity which is tied to marketing, drawing business to spend money at our local small businesses.
- It can provide valuable benefits to the local artists and businesses that we rely on in our community, such as housing, live/work space, opportunities.
- It strengthens our local economy, creates an enhanced sense of place, and deepens our local cultural capacity.
What are the benefits that come with having a Washington State Certified Creative District Designation?
- Funding – Newly Certified Districts will receive a cash grant of $5,000 (one-to-one cash match required, match can include in-kind donation up to $2500 for smaller communities). Subject to availability.
- Marketing
- Promotion of Creative Districts – sharing stories and successes with our audiences, both regionally and nationally
- In partnership with Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), wayfinding signs will be placed on state highways in and/or near certified Creative Districts to complement a district’s own signage efforts. (All signage must recognize the State Arts Commission’s supportive role with agreed upon language and / or logo).
- Data and Impact Analysis assistance Ongoing support and advocacy to ensure success
- Access to training programs
- Assistance with grant identification and additional funding opportunities
What creative jobs and programs can participate and benefit from the Certified Creative District?
Here is a list of examples, though it is not comprehensive:
- Cultural facilities, places like theaters and museums
- Artist and music studios
- Galleries
- Businesses based on creative activity, for example:
- Architects
- Fashion
- Advertising
- Graphic Design
- Interior Design Studios
- Bakeries
- Chocolatiers
- Music venues