The Kentucky Arts Council’s investment of $1.7 million in operational support for nonprofit arts organizations in Kentucky produced significant returns in tax revenues, jobs, education services and tourism development. The first Public Value Report produced by the arts council features data collected from 89 of the 93 arts organizations* that received funding through the state agency’s Kentucky Arts Partnership grants for the period of July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2011.

“I’m very pleased that we’re able to provide data demonstrating the return on the agency’s investment in these organizations as we establish a baseline with this Public Value Report,” said Lori Meadows, executive director of the Kentucky Arts Council. “It shows the value of public support for the arts in terms of both economic activity and benefits provided to communities across the Commonwealth.”

Highlights of the report include a return of more than $6 million in combined federal, state and local tax revenue by Kentucky arts partners. These organizations directly employ more than 1,500 people and contract for services from many local businesses. The arts council’s operational support funding to these arts organizations leverages $66 million in earned income, corporate sponsorships, private foundation grants and individual donations.

Kentucky arts partners spent more than $8.8 million on arts education programs, serving all 120 counties of Kentucky. More than 1 million youths attended arts events or participated in arts education experiences offered by these organizations.

During the reporting period, there were more than 350,000 out-of-state attendees at arts events, including school groups from neighboring states. Total attendance at arts activities and events was more than 6 million.

To view the Public Value Report and a list of Kentucky Arts Partnership organizations, go to http://artscouncil.ky.gov/Resources/Advocacy_PVR2011.htm.

The Kentucky Arts Council, the state arts agency, creates opportunities for Kentuckians to value, participate in and benefit from the arts. Kentucky Arts Council funding is provided by the Kentucky General Assembly and the National Endowment for the Arts.

[*Content Manager’s note: Organizations in our coverage are receiving funds include: Kentucky Repertory Theatre, Simpson County Guild of Artists and Craftsmen, Capitol Arts Alliance, Orchestra Kentucky, Public Theatre of Kentucky and VSA Kentucky.]