SMU DataArts - Cultural Data Profile

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Our mission is to equip the arts and culture ecosystem with research insights and data to build strong, vibrant, and equitable communities.

The Most Arts-Vibrant Communities of 2025: County and State Rankings

Jackson, WY-ID, claims the title of #1 most arts-vibrant community in the nation, with particular strengths in federal arts grants and funding. Meanwhile, New York leads as the top-ranked state and boasts 9 communities in the top 100—more than any other state.

Explore the Rankings

April 28, 2026

Using Comparative Data to Fuel Cultural Development and Advocacy in Niagara County

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April 09, 2026

A Year in Review: SMU DataArts Releases its 2025 Annual Report

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February 19, 2026

AI and the Future of Grantmaking: Lessons from Public Sector Research

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In-Depth Research Across Four Focus Areas

Get in-depth insights on topics that affect arts organizations across various sectors and budget sizes, across the country. These reports feature data visualizations and observations from the field with the goal of providing insights on trends so that arts leaders are equipped with the latest trends for strategy development.

Arts Vibrancy
Discover how cultural activity, public investment, and participation strengthen creative ecosystems nationwide.

Creative Workforce
Research on employment, demographics, wages, and inclusion across the arts and culture workforce.

Grantmaking Evaluations
Data‑driven assessments that help funders understand the reach, equity, and impact of their investments.

Sector Trends
Analysis of financial and operational trends that reveal the sector’s challenges, opportunities, and long‑term health.

Our Partners & Clients

Our research and data collection is made possible through the generous support of philanthropic institutions committed to advancing the arts and culture sector. 

We also partner with organizations whose strategies shape the field to produce research with broad and lasting impact. 

Explore our research clients

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