The Local Arts Advocacy Survey results are in!

Sacramento Arts Advocacy Needs Assessment – Key Findings

Thank you to the artists, arts leaders, and community members who participated in the Local Arts Advocacy Needs Survey. The responses highlight both the strength of Sacramento’s arts community and the urgent needs facing artists and arts organizations across our region. 51 artists, art leaders, and community members filled out the survey

Top Challenges Facing the Arts Community

Respondents identified several major barriers impacting their work:

• Funding and grant access (71%) – The most commonly cited challenge, showing the need for more sustainable and accessible funding opportunities.
• Affordable space (53%) – Many artists and organizations struggle to find affordable rehearsal, studio, and performance spaces.
• Audience engagement and visibility (49%) – Building and sustaining audiences remains a significant concern.
• Local government support and policies (49%) – Respondents indicated that stronger public support for the arts is needed.

Policy Issues Impacting the Arts

Survey participants overwhelmingly pointed to policy issues affecting the sector:

• Public funding for the arts (84%) was the most significant policy concern.
• Economic development and creative workforce support (49%) was also identified as a key issue.
• Arts education in schools (43%) remains a priority for strengthening the creative pipeline.
• Cultural equity and inclusion (37%) continues to be an important focus for the arts community.

Perception of Local Decision-Makers

When asked how well local decision-makers understand the needs of the arts community:

• 57% said “Not very well”
• 33% said “Somewhat well”
• 4% said “Not at all”

Notably, no respondents felt decision-makers understand the arts community “very well.” This indicates a clear opportunity for stronger dialogue between the arts sector and policymakers.

What the Arts Community Needs for Advocacy

Respondents indicated that the following supports would help strengthen arts advocacy:

• Coalition building and networking opportunities (59%)
• Research and data about the impact of the arts (55%)
• Opportunities to speak directly with officials (43%)
• Training on how to advocate for the arts (33%)

Community Voices

In open-ended responses, artists and arts leaders expressed interest in:

• Building stronger coalitions across arts organizations
• Meeting directly with policymakers and local officials
• Expanding affordable arts spaces
• Strengthening the creative workforce pipeline
• Increasing investment in arts education
• Supporting the local music and performance economy

Many respondents also emphasized the role of the arts in strengthening community identity, economic development, and quality of life in the Sacramento region.

Next Steps

These results will help guide future regional arts advocacy efforts, coalition building, and policy conversations. The strong participation in this survey demonstrates that Sacramento’s arts community is ready to work together to ensure the arts continue to thrive.

Thank you to everyone who contributed their voices.