ArtsNow

1. Providing access to arts & culture information in fy2024, Artsnow expanded its efforts to connect summit county residents with the diverse arts and culture offerings available in the region. Through platforms like summitlive365, Artsnow featured over 17,000 events since 2015 and shared over 1,600 job opportunities and calls for artists. Through a project titled seen: advancing equity in summit county, Artsnow invested in photographers and videographers from historically marginalized communities to capture photo and video content highlighting the diversity of patrons, artists, and performers from across summit county. - 7 artists/photographers - 17 shoots - 14 locations across summit county - 1,328 videos and photographs - 12,625 invested in local photographers the newly launched accessibility library further supported equitable access to the arts by offering resources that enhance the inclusivity of cultural spaces across summit county. 2. Aggregating and analyzing data to drive sector improvement Artsnow continued its leadership in data aggregation and analysis to identify and address the needs of the arts and culture sector. A key focus in fy2024 was monitoring and celebrating the implementation of the akron/summit cultural plan. Through surveys and community feedback, we identified the top priorities for Artsnow, including increased advocacy, funding support, and fostering connections among stakeholders. Data insights guided our artsforward grant program, which has been instrumental in leveraging private and public funding for local projects. 3. Convening and connecting makers and presenters Artsnow hosted 19 events throughout fy2024, with over 740 participants attending professional development sessions, networking opportunities, and workshops. Of attendees surveyed, 72% rated the events as "excellent/exceeded expectations," while 23% were "satisfied/met expectations." Our convenings connected 98% of respondents with valuable resources, including funding opportunities, venues, and professional networks. The top connections cited were: - people within the arts and cultural sector - support and encouragement - information and training additionally, Artsnow played a pivotal role in fostering collaborations through programs like the creative placemaking conference, where artists, neighborhood leaders, and civic partners developed strategies to enhance community spaces through arts-driven solutions. 4. Building and strengthening funding for arts & culture through initiatives like the artsforward grant program, Artsnow secured critical funding to empower local artists and organizations. The program raised 1 million in 2023 and 2024. In fy2024, artsforward grantees secured 55,231 in additional funding for projects that hosted over 20,000 attendees and employed 340 people. These projects exemplify the sector's growth and its impact on the local economy. Looking ahead to 2025 survey respondents highlighted three areas of focus for Artsnow's continued leadership in the coming year: 1. Monitoring and celebrating the progress of the akron/summit cultural plan. 2. Facilitating artsforward grants to sustain and expand funding opportunities. 3.advocacy at state and national levels to amplify the value of arts and culture.