With the abundance of artists and the potential for more cultural activities in the region, we see the arts as a huge opportunity to embrace the creative sector as a vibrant, economic engine for the region. When it to comes reviving downtown centers, increasing tourism and generating jobs, there are few motors as powerful as the arts. Arts and culture activities have grown, evolved and transitioned to what is now called the Creative Sector, while their economic importance has increased substantially. 3Rivers Arts will develop programs to fuel the creative economy and nurture the creative sector. Our goal is not only for artists to make a living off their artistic talents, but for downtown business to feel the positive effect of more customers in their retail shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries.