Creative Economy of Chicago and Illinois: Impact and Assets

The Creative Economy of Chicago and Illinois: Impact and Assets

In late 2025, Arts Alliance Illinois began taking a first-of-its-kind look at the scale, structure, and impact of the Illinois and Chicago creative economy.

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Overview

The creative economy is a major driver of jobs, business growth, and community vitality across Illinois. Until now, it has lacked the comprehensive, up-to-date analysis needed to guide investment and policy decisions.

This data initiative from Arts Alliance Illinois is designed to close that gap. The study measures the economic impact of the creative sector while mapping the cultural assets and infrastructure that support it, offering a clearer picture of how the creative economy functions across the state and within individual communities.

Alongside the statewide and regional findings, Chicago Loop Alliance is partnering on a companion analysis examining the creative economy within Chicago’s Loop.

Developed in partnership with leaders across arts, economic development, and philanthropy, this work positions the creative economy not just as a cultural asset, but as a core component of Illinois’ economic strategy.

Coming June 2026

Reports and resources will be released here beginning June 25, 2026.

Check back for:

A statewide report on Illinois’ creative economy
Regional and local analyses, including Chicago (citywide), Chicago Loop, Chicago South City, DuPage County and other communities
Summary briefs and key findings
An interactive digital asset map

Together, these materials provide both a big-picture view and the local context needed to inform decision-making about arts and culture in our communities.

Digital Asset Map (Coming Soon)

The accompanying Digital Asset Map will offer an interactive way to visualize creative organizations, businesses, and infrastructure across Illinois and within specific communities, highlighting where resources exist and where gaps remain. More coming soon!

What Comes Next

This release is just a starting point! Following the release, Arts Alliance Illinois will host a series of listening sessions to share findings, gather feedback, and engage artists, organizations, and community leaders in shaping what comes next for the arts community in Illinois. Stay tuned for more information and opportunities to participate by signing up for our email list.