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Fostering A Creative Economy

What is the Creative Economy?

Over the last decade, cities and countries worldwide have studied how creative industries like design, media, film, theater, architecture and more influence technology, workforce and economies.

In Arlington, VA the creative economy has a significant impact – Americans for the Arts calculates the direct economic impact of our nonprofit arts industry at more than $97 million.

Return on Creativity

Creativity: An Arlington Asset

Arlington Economic Development’s Return on Creativity series features professionals and educators who are spearheading business and workforce growth through the application of creativity. Driving this program is the belief that art is good for business — encouraging creativity leads to a more productive and engaged workforce.

Return on Creativity programs offer networking opportunities, first-hand insights and compelling evidence that Arlington is an accelerator to personal and organizational growth and prosperity. Watch the events calendar or subscribe to our newsletter to find out about up-coming events.

Made in Arlington

Locally Created by Arlington Artisans and Makers

Made in Arlington pop-up markets are a signature program of Arlington Economic Development’s Creative Economy program. These pop-up retail markets showcase the beautiful, wearable and edible items created by innovators and artisans right here in Arlington, VA.

In partnership with Arlington Public Library, locally made Arlington items are frequently sold at the Plaza Library location in the Courthouse neighborhood. You can find Made in Arlington vendors in the Small Business Directory and view many of their products on the Made in Arlington Instagram page.

Small Business Directory

Find a Made in Arlington Vendor

Support Arlington's most creative small businesses, our Made in Arlington artisans, makers and crafts vendors. Locally crafted products are available directly from the artisans, many of whom offer shipping and special delivery options. Contact information for each Made in Arlington vendor is provided in the Small Business Directory.

Submit your information to be included in our directory. If your services or information changes, send us an email and we will update your listing.

Upcoming Events

Arlington Art Walk

Join us for the "Arlington Art Walk" on Friday, Oct. 5, 2023 from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. and visit multiple exhibits in one day.

The "Arlington Art Walk" is a self-guided art experience that connects local galleries, artist studios and cultural events. During the walk, gallery hours for participating organizations will be extended so that our friends, neighbors and artists may come to see what we're up to.

Learn about Arlington's celebrated art and vibrant network of stunning gallery spaces on this short, self-guided walking tour.

Arlington Art Walk Download Map

Save the Date!

Plans for the Rosslyn Cheer Holiday Market are underway for Dec. 9-10, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Central Place Plaza. Be on the lookout for vendor registration information. Questions? Email events@rosslynva.org.

Contact Us

Susan Soroko

Director, Creative Economy

Susan oversees Arlington’s creative economy program, facilitating collaborations between creative industries and the local community. Reach out for more information on Arlington’s resources for the creative economy.

Get In Touch