This fact sheet prepared in 2020 by Americans for the Arts provides 10 research-based reasons that governements should invest in their local arts agencies in both good and challenging social and economic times.

Local arts agencies—arts councils, arts commissions, cultural affairs departments—are an essential tool for community leaders as they rebuild their economies and promote social cohesion. The nation’s 4,500 local arts agencies (LAAs) support, present, and promote the dynamic value of the arts. Through their partnerships and leadership, LAAs are building healthier communities through the arts in the following ways:

1. Support a robust jobs sector.
2. Drive commerce to local businesses
3. Grow the creative economy.
4. Promote tourism.
5. Unify communities.
6. Partner in education
7. Improve civic pride
8. Support the health and well-being of the military
9. Promote healthy communities.
10. Build social cohesion