Creativity and innovation power Central Florida. They shape how we learn, how we do business and how we connect as a community. Our region’s creative economy is not a niche. It is a major engine for driving growth and opportunity.
Today, more than 65,000 people in Orange County work in creative industries. That includes such professions as architects, designers, writers, filmmakers, musicians, software developers and many others. These taxpaying small-business owners, freelancers and entrepreneurs contribute more than $2 billion to the local economy each year, according to CANVAS 2030, the new Cultural Plan for the City of Orlando and Orange County.
Our theme parks, design firms, tech industries and nonprofit arts organizations all rely on this talent—and the creative ecosystem that ensures a steady supply begins in classrooms. When young students experience the arts through teaching artists, they build collaboration, curiosity and confidence.
Such skills open doors to creative careers and prepare students to explore new possibilities at world-class institutions, including Full Sail University, Valencia College, Seminole State College, Rollins College and the University of Central Florida. These schools are shaping the next generation of artists, producers and creative professionals who will keep Central Florida at the forefront of innovation.
Without a doubt, what keeps our region exceptional is the creative infrastructure that helps top talent stay local. Graduates may design immersive experiences for theme parks, develop games for global audiences, create simulation solutions for medicine and aerospace or craft architectural landmarks. Others may join the nonprofit arts sector—designing sets, costumes and performances that enrich our community and welcome millions of visitors each year.
This blend of for-profit and nonprofit creativity provides a deep bench of talent and positions our region to become a global creative capital by 2045. From lighting designers at Orlando Family Stage to game developers at EA Sports, from architects reshaping rural communities to teaching artists offering inspiration in classrooms, creativity is central to our economic story.
The federal government recognizes the creative economy as a driver of national prosperity. In Central Florida, that potential is real. As the region grows, we’ll need stronger workforce pathways that connect education to opportunity.
Students who learn creative problem solving today are tomorrow’s innovators in healthcare, technology, architecture and beyond. Creativity has always fueled innovation and will continue to shape the jobs of the future.
So investing in creativity is investing in our collective future. Every performance ticket, art class or design project sustains jobs. Creative people not only solve problems—they also tell our stories and make our communities more vibrant.
Central Florida is a global capital in the making. Together, we can continue to nurture the artists, educators and innovators who make this such an extraordinary place to call home.
JENNIFER EVINS
President & CEO
United Arts of Central Florida
