Sector Trends
Understanding Forces Shaping the Nonprofit Arts and Culture Sector
The arts and culture sector is constantly evolving, shaped by economic shifts, funding challenges, and changing audience behaviors. At SMU DataArts, we analyze key financial and operational trends to assess the health and sustainability of arts organizations nationwide. Through partnerships with local agencies, funders, and service organizations, our research uncovers regional and discipline-specific dynamics and trends to foster effective investment and support for a wide range of organizations.
By integrating data across budget sizes, disciplines, and BIPOC-led organizations, we uncover insights into the sector’s strengths, vulnerabilities, and opportunities.
Our research—developed in collaboration with local agencies, funders, and service organizations—provides actionable data to guide strategic investment and long-term sustainability.
2025 National Trends in Arts and Culture
Drawing on data provided by over 6,500 organizations of varying budget size, geographic location, and artistic discipline, we dissect funding sources and attendance, staffing patterns, and working capital of nonprofit cultural organizations nationwide.
Notable Publications
Financial Health of Cultural Sectors Across the U.S. Diverge Sharply Since Pandemic
July 16, 2026
A study of 10 U.S. cities reveals sharp divergence in nonprofit arts finances since the pandemic — and shows how public investment shapes recovery.
Assessing Sustainability of Bay Area Performing Arts Organizations
MAY 29, 2025
In-person attendance rates are increasing, but earned revenue is still in recovery. Research reveals what's driving these trends.
Are Capital Reserves Amassed During the Pandemic Beginning to Erode?
MAY 02, 2024
As expenses rebounded in 2022 and outpaced revenue in 2023, the average nonprofit arts organization experienced a slight deficit.
Arts Organizations Increase Staff Despite Challenging Economic Conditions
APR 30, 2024
Organizations rebuild compensation to artists after steep cuts during the pandemic, but inflation places persistent pressure on each dollar spent.
As Relief Funding Dwindles, Arts and Culture Seek New Revenue Sources
APR 26, 2024
Total operating revenue neared its return to pre-pandemic levels, but organizations remain more dependent on contributed revenue for survival.
Nonprofit Theatre Sector Faces an All-Time Low for Total Earned Income in 2022
APR 17, 2024
Our partners at Theatre Communications Group release the 2024 edition of Theatre Facts, capturing a second full fiscal year impacted COVID-19.
Sarah Williams
Arts Program Officer, Kenneth Rainin Foundation
“The SMU DataArts team not only analyzed the data, but helped us translate complex findings into clear, actionable insights, which we then shared with our grantee and philanthropic community with an engaging webinar. Their expertise and partnership made for a collaborative and rewarding process.”