DENVER (KDVR) — Colorado has certified seven new creative districts across the state to support local economies and help ensure arts and culture remain a key pillar of communities.
Governor Polis and the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade Department of Creative Industries The new creative districts were announced on Wednesday, including six in rural communities.
The governor’s office said certificate It will help strengthen local economies and community identities.
New creative areas:
- Estes Arts District
- The evergreen creative district
- Ignacio Creative District
- Lyon Creative District
- North Boulder (NOBO) Arts District
- Silverthorne Creative District
- Silverton Creative District
The communities are working to boost jobs, incomes and investments through arts and culture, and have demonstrated a strong commitment in key areas such as local government recognition of the arts, an active focus of creative organizations and businesses, diverse and sustainable funding sources, dedicated paid staff, and a strategic plan, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
Governor Polis added that the certificates will provide spaces for innovation and creativity to flourish.
The creative industries are a major contributor to Colorado’s quality of life and economy. According to the release, arts and culture support more than 121,000 jobs across the state and contribute $19.7 billion, or 3.7% to the state’s economy.
There are now 37 creative districts across the state.
Designation brings benefits such as financial support to districts after achieving certification for a year or more, as well as resources, a learning community, marketing support, highway signs, and driver training.
Colorado in recent years has ranked first in the percentage of residents who perform or create art, according to the National Endowment for the Arts. Participation study.