Discover two innovative Cincinnati initiatives using data and artist support to strengthen the creative economy and build a more connected arts ecosystem.

What does it take for a creative community to thrive? In Cincinnati, the answer goes beyond funding. During this month’s session of CreativeOhio’s Advocacy Leadership Institute, the cohort explored two new initiatives that are building the systems that help artists and arts organizations succeed.

Measuring Impact

The first, the Cincinnati Arts & Culture Community Impact Study, is being led and self-funded by Tiffany Cooper (Meaningful Connections, LLC) and Candra Reeves (Ardelle Group, LLC). By combining quantitative data and community feedback gathered through surveys, listening sessions and community engagement, the study offers a deeper understanding of how people from all backgrounds, including those historically underrepresented or underfunded, connect with arts and cultural opportunities throughout the Greater Cincinnati region.

Moving beyond traditional economic metrics, the study aims to provide a broader viewpoint of the arts and culture landscape, highlighting how creative expression can shape the over well-being and health of a community.

Investing in Artists

At the same time, the Cincinnati Artist Network (CAN) is taking a similar community-centered approach to supporting regional artists. Led by Tamia Stinson through the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, with support from the Haile Foundation, CAN connects artists with professional development, networking opportunities, and business resources—recognizing artists as entrepreneurs and contributors to the region’s economy.

The network serves as a hub where artists can build professional relationships, access career development resources, and connect with opportunities across the region. By bringing artists into conversations with business and civic leaders, CAN is helping position the creative workforce as an essential part of Cincinnati’s economic future.

Together, these efforts represent two sides of the same equation: understanding the value of the arts through data while strengthening the people who make that value possible.

As communities across Ohio continue to explore ways to grow their creative economies, Cincinnati offers an example of how research, partnerships, and investment in artists can work together to build a stronger arts ecosystem.