Did you know that Boston has more arts and cultural organizations per capita than any other metropolis in the states? Neither did we. But at the rate of 50 organizations for every 100,000 citizens, our city beats out the likes of New York City, Chicago and LA. That’s just one of the many surprising statistics presented by ArtsBoston in their new initiative, THE ARTS FACTOR. The team at ArtsBoston has been collecting and analyzing data that examines how cultural organizations contribute to and enhance our city’s economy. The result is an impressive argument, organized into their 2014 ARTS FACTOR REPORT.

With last month’s proposed budget cutbacks to the arts and cultural sector, the Arts Factor project is a vital resource for local non-profits who could really flourish with state funding. The report, broken into four key messages (identity, vitality, innovation and transformation), shows how the state can, in turn, profit from advocating for the arts. These organizations buoy our economy by creating jobs, encouraging tourism, promoting local businesses and engaging the community.

The report is especially relevant to the upcoming Gubernatorial Forum on Arts, Culture and Creativity, scheduled to take place in Worcester on 7/15. Hosted by Create the Vote, the forum will provide an opportunity for the 2014 state governor candidates to discuss their plans to support MA’s arts and cultural programs. We hope to see you there!