Maine is Focusing on Developing Its Creative Economy

It’s an exciting time for the Creative Economy Initiative. Powerful networks have developed. Important research has been completed. And the creative economy movement has extended its reach from southern Connecticut to the most rural communities of northern New England.

The transformation began in January 2003, when Cathy Minehan, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, hosted the inaugural meeting of the Creative Economy Council, the industry association that is now leading New England’s Creative Economy Initiative. John Kreidler, Executive Director of Cultural Initiatives Silicon Valley, observed that the inauguration of the Creative Economy Council marked a new and exciting moment in economic development – not just for New England, but for the entire creative economy movement. For the first time, leaders from the business, cultural and political communities of each of New England’s states came together to recognize the compelling message of the creative economy movement – that economic development must include investment in creative industries, a creative workforce and community life that is rich in creativity and cultural heritage.

Across New England many other gatherings followed that luncheon. Like the meeting at the bank, these gatherings brought leaders together who had never before had the opportunity to develop strategies side by side. Individuals who had previously seen themselves as business only, or arts only, now began to understand that they were part of an interconnected creative economy, and their well-being depended on advancing agendas that supported creative industries, workers and communities.

These meetings also enhanced participation in communities that were previously non-participating. For example, participants from northern New England have steadily increased.

Full Report: http://www.newenglandcouncil.com/creativeEconomy.php

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Panel examines business initiative

When told that a function held Wednesday at the city’s public library was about Maine’s creative economy, a building custodian appeared to be somewhat bemused.

"It’s a creative economy, alright," he said as he arranged chairs in a row. "That’s why I’ve got three jobs."

Having Mainers hold down three jobs while trying to earn a living, however, is not among the goals Gov. John Baldacci cited last year when he created Maine’s Creative Economy Council.

What "creative economy" means depends on whom gets asked the question, according to Bangor architect and council Co-chairman John Rohman. Based on what council members talked about Wednesday, Maine’s initiative is meant to foster the kind of livable, diverse communities that attract entrepreneurs, cultural organizations, and self-employed artisans, as well as the boost their cumulative efforts provide the state economy.

About 20 members of the Maine Creative Economy Council met Wednesday at the Bangor Public Library to hash out issues it hopes to address in a report that will be presented to the Legislature in March. Wednesday’s meeting was one of five topic-specific council meetings being held throughout the state as the advisory group drafts a plan for how this type of economic activity can be cultivated in Maine, according to Rohman.

Full Story: http://www.bangornews.com/news/templates/?a=122297