According to the Arts and Economic Prosperity 6 (AEP6) study, Nashua’s nonprofit arts and culture industry generated $11.3 million during fiscal year 2022.

Within that figure, $7.3 million came from spending by nonprofit arts and culture organizations while the remaining $3.9 million came from money patrons spent while attending an event in Nashua.

“The Americans for the Arts study provides concrete data that shows when individuals, companies, and local, state and federal governments support arts and culture, they are supporting more than charities that contribute to the well-being and vibrancy of their communities,” said Economic Development Director Elizabeth Hannum. “They also are investing in a significant industry sector that provides a local economic engine generating $11.3 million right here in Nashua and that draws visitors, tourists and new residents to our city.”

The industry also produced $15.5 million on the local level to support 482 jobs.

The numbers reported in the AEP6 study come after the arts and culture industry was decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic as revenues plummeted by 73% between 2019 and 2020.

The study also showed that 72% of patrons live in Hillsborough County and collectively spent $2.6 million while attending an event in Nashua.

On the national level, the AEP6 study revealed that America’s arts and culture industry is worth $151.7 billion with $29.1 billion going to the government. The industry also supports 2.6 million jobs.

“Arts and culture organizations have a powerful ability to attract and hold dollars in the community longer. They employ people locally, purchase goods and services from nearby businesses, and produce the authentic cultural experiences that are magnets for visitors, tourists and new residents,” said Nolen Bivens, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts. “When we invest in nonprofit arts and culture, we strengthen our economy and build more livable communities.”

— CHRISTOPHER ROBERSON/NASHUA TELEGRAPH