The BCA Report: 2001 National Survey of Business Support to the Arts
- Business contributions to the arts reached a record level of $1.56 billion in 2000, compared to $1.16 billion in 1997. This represents an increase of 34%. In 2000, the arts received 14% of total philanthropic contributions made by business.
- Approximately 70% of the total amount given by business to the arts in 2000 was attributed to small and midsize companies - those with annual revenues of $1 million to $50 million. These companies represent 96% of the business sector. Within this sector, approximately 37% contributed to the arts.
- This survey was conducted during June and July, 2001, at which time business expected to increase its support to the arts by approximately 3% in 2001 and slightly more in 2002. In light of the events of September 11, 2001, these projections may change.
- The contributions budget, generally determined by profits, is the primary source of business support to the arts. There is a growing trend to support the arts from marketing (34%) advertising (32%), community relations (26%), public relations (24%) and human resources (13%) budgets.
- A majority (76%) of businesses agree that an active arts community is "very important" or "somewhat important." The majority of businesses also agree that involvement with the arts can help business by offering networking opportunities, stimulating creative thinking and problem-solving, and building team spirit.
An Executive Summary of The BCA Report: 2001 National Survey of Business Support to the Arts is available for $8. A complete report is $95 ($50 for BCA members and Not-for-Profit Organizations). To order, send a check payable to Business Committee for the Arts, Inc. to:
2001 National Survey
Business Committee for the Arts, Inc.
29-27 Queens Plaza North
Long Island City, NY 11101