The creative economy, which includes occupations like artists and composers, is bigger than you’d think. In 2017, it contributed $880 billion or 4.5% of U.S. gross domestic product. That’s larger than industries like construction, transportation and warehousing, travel and tourism, utilities and agriculture, according to National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA).

How many creative workers are there in America? The federal government doesn’t have recent figures. But in 2012, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) put that number at 1.1 million individuals, although others suggest it’s between 10-20 million people, depending on how you define creative work.

We’re talking about artists, animators, art directors, graphic designers, photographers, editors and writers. Without a good strategy and planning, they can be vulnerable in a bad economy.

Here’s how creative professionals can thrive during a recession.

More From Inc.

Share via
Copy link
Powered by Social Snap