Economic Development Collaborative to host convening on Kentucky’s arts economy

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Oct. 23, 2026) — The University of Kentucky Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) will host its November convening, “The Creative Advantage: Advancing Kentucky’s Arts Economy,” 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18, at The Cornerstone, 401 S. Limestone.

The event will examine the economic impact of arts and culture in Lexington, across Kentucky and at UK through the proposed campus arts district, part of a $150 million gift from the Bill Gatton Foundation announced in December 2025. Kentucky’s arts industry generates $6.9 billion in economic impact and supports more than 51,000 jobs, creating opportunities and contributing to economic development across the Commonwealth.

“The arts and design are powerful drivers of Kentucky’s economy, and the University of Kentucky plays a central role in translating creative talent and innovation into jobs, investment and thriving communities,” said Ned Crankshaw, dean of the UK College of Design and an EDC steering committee member. “This convening brings together campus and community voices to explore how we can expand that impact, creating jobs, attracting investment and building vibrant places across Kentucky.”

This convening is part of the EDC mission to bring the university together by connecting people, sharing knowledge and leading efforts that advance economic impact in alignment with UK’s Advancing Kentucky Together Network and regional and state goals.

The program will open with a welcome address from Crankshaw, followed by a keynote from Rachel Shane, Ph.D., chair of UK’s Department of Arts Administration within the College of Fine Arts, who will provide an overview of the Kentucky creative economy.

Four organizations will then each share, in seven-minute presentations, their economic impact in the region:

• The Burl
• LexArts
• The RailBird Festival
• FilmLex

Rebekah Radtke, associate professor in the College of Design’s School of Interiors, will deliver closing remarks. Attendees are invited to stay for a networking opportunity, 2:30-3p.m.

The convening is free and open to the UK community and the broader public. Registration is encouraged and available online.