Businesses across the country have been reeling from the economic consequences of physical distancing policies put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19. One of the most impacted sub-sectors in the entire economy has been arts, culture, recreation, and sports. Their shared role in bringing people together is what has put them collectively at risk.
Statistics Canada surveyed more than 14,000 businesses and nonprofit organizations on the impact of the shutdown. It found that two in three (67%) reported revenue declines of 20%. And those employed in the arts sector are among the most impacted of any workers.
And yet the pressures and deprivations have not curtailed creativity. Many arts organizations have found alternative formats to produce and share their work. But arts organizations need guaranteed support to figure out how to plan for the long-term.