The arts and cultural sector represents a powerful force that extends far beyond creative expression, serving as a vital catalyst for job creation, revenue generation, education, health, and community development. Strategic investments in arts and culture programming, public art initiatives, and creative workforce development are essential components of sustainable economic growth and urban revitalization.

Why the Arts Matter

The Positive Impact of the Arts: Key Findings from Recent Reports

Economic Impact on San Antonio

Data pulled from the study by Economist Dr. Steve Nivin (Associate Professor of Economics and Chair of the Economics Department at St. Mary's University) and was commissioned by the City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture.

2025 State of the Arts Report

Through Art Can, the Texas Cultural Trust conducts research and publishes data to quantify the impact of the arts and creative sectors on the economy, education, culture, and health and well-being of Texas. These findings are published in the biennial State of the Arts Report.

$5.18 Billion

annual economic impact from the creative sector in San Antonio

20,000+ Jobs

supported by arts and cultural industries in Bexar County

Creative industries contribute to urban revitalization, attracting businesses and residents to redeveloped areas.

69.7 Billion

amount in gross domestic product that arts and culture sector in Texas contributes

$1 to $5 Return

for every $1 invested in the arts, there’s a $5 return in economic impact

$200+ Million

the amount arts organizations generate in local and state tax revenues annually

5 Million Visitors

are attracted to cultural events, significantly boosting tourism

Twice as Likely

arts education students are twice as likely to graduate from college

Twice the Rate

creative sector careers are growing at twice the rate of the overall Texas workforce

Arts programs have been linked to improved mental health, community engagement, and youth development.

Why This Work Matters

Ongoing Impact from Government Funding Losses on San Antonio Arts & Culture

In a recent survey, CAUSA gathered data from 23 San Antonio organizations on how funding losses have impacted their work. Participating organizations include: Musical Bridges Around the World, San Pedro Playhouse & Classic Theatre, URBAN-15 GROUP, Agarita, San Antonio Chamber Choir, YOSA, Jump-Start Performance Co., Centro Cultural Aztlan, Inc., Contemporary at Blue Star, The Majestic Empire Foundation, Musical Bridges Around the World. Inc, Luminaria, San Antonio Book Festival, American Indians in Texas Spanish Colonial Missions, Artpace, Wonder Theatre, Witte Museum, Magik Theatre, San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA), OPERA San Antonio, Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, SAY SI, and Ruby City, Linda Pace Foundation.This data is current as of May 11, 2025.

Distribution of Arts Categories

Annual Operating Budget

When asked, has your organization experienced funding reductions in the past year, 75% of participating organizations said yes.

Have you faced funding Challenges due to DEI-focused Programs?

  • Multiple organizations have experienced cancellations of major funding streams, including grants from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), Humanities Texas, and IMLS, often due to program content or DEI related language.

  • Some groups report being repeatedly turned down for funding over time, creating pressure from their boards to reduce or alter programming.

  • Organizations with "edgy" or socially challenging content face difficulties securing support from corporate sponsors and private foundations that consider such programming too controversial.

  • In recent communications, some government funders have advised applicants to move away from DEI-focused language and toward general operations or neutral programming to improve funding chances.

  • Commitment to LGBTQ+ or DEI programming has led to the loss of individual donor support for some organizations.

  • Institutions like SAMA emphasize that their DEI values are embedded in longstanding institutional practices, yet acknowledge evolving pressures on funding tied to these themes.

  • There is widespread concern about future funding stability, including city, county, and state-level support, particularly heading into the next fiscal year.

When asked, have you encountered increased infrastructure costs in the past year, 65% of participating organizations said yes.

The main challenges include aging facilities requiring expensive maintenance like plumbing repairs, electrical updates, and roof work, while finding adequate funding for these costs remains difficult. Rising operational expenses, including rent increases, are straining budgets as organizations try to maintain programs without cutting services. Additionally, there's growing concern about future affordability and the need to identify new funding sources as costs continue to rise.

Have you had to reduce or cancel programs due to funding constraints?

Have you observed changes in community engagement or attendance?

Arts and Culture faces uncertainty from multiple sources, including federal administration changes, state legislation, and local leadership transitions. Organizations are still assessing the full impact of recent policy and funding shifts while working to maintain their essential community services. Despite significant challenges, San Antonio's arts organizations demonstrate remarkable resilience, finding creative ways to maintain programming while seeking sustainable solutions for the future. Their continued commitment to serving the community, particularly through free and accessible programming, reflects the industry’s dedication to its mission even in difficult times.

CAUSA’s Key Recommendations for Continued Public Support

  • Increased funding for local arts programs to sustain and expand their economic contribution.

  • Support for Public Art Initiatives to enhance community identity and attract tourism.

  • Investment in Creative Workforce Development to prepare local youth for careers in the growing arts economy.

  • Grant Opportunities for minority and emerging artists to ensure equity and inclusivity.

  • Prioritizing Cultural Districts as economic engines that promote tourism and local spending.

CAUSA Steering Committee

Cristina Ballí, Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center

Michelle Everidge, Witte Museum

Elyse Gonzales, Ruby City

Sarah Gould, Mexican American Civil Rights Institute

Mary Heathcott, Contemporary at Blue Star

Jon Hinojosa, YO CREO

Matthew McLendon, McNay Art Museum

Emily Neff, San Antonio Museum of Art

Cassandra Parker-Nowicki, Carver Community Cultural Center

Riley Robinson, Artpace