In March 2013, Governor Pat Quinn announced the launch of the Illinois Creative Economy Initiative to be led by Arts Alliance Illinois. To help guide this work, a Creative Economy Roundtable was formed and is charged with advising on how Illinois can leverage its creative assets to grow jobs, strengthen the workforce, and build more vibrant communities. The Center for Governmental Studies (CGS) at Northern Illinois University was retained to assist the Roundtable in developing recommendations and a proposed action plan.

The Illinois Creative Economy Initiative demonstrates the state’s recognition of the important role creative enterprises play in the economy. The National Governors Association explains why states are emphasizing the creative economy:

“Creative industries provide direct economic benefits to states and communities. They create jobs, attract investments, generate tax revenues and stimulate local economies through tourism and consumer purchases. They provide other benefits, such as infusing other industries with creative insight for their products and services and preparing workers to participate in the contemporary workforce. In addition, they enhance quality of life attracting young professionals to an area.”[1]

The creative economy is made up of creative enterprises and the people and businesses that patronize them.

Further information about this project is available at www.IllinoisCreativeEconomy.org or by contacting Maria Capoccia at [email protected] or Dr. Patricia Inman at [email protected].

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