The latest national data from SMU Data Arts, “National Trends 2025: Analysis of the Nonprofit Arts and Culture Sector,” show that arts and culture nonprofits face tighter margins, with revenues falling faster than expenses and working capital shrinking. Nearly half of organizations are running deficits. Staffing has dipped to six-year lows, even as attendance rebounds. Funding streams are shifting back toward prepandemic balances of contributed and earned revenue, though all sources have softened.
Oregon is home to more than 2,400 arts and culture nonprofits that generate over $829 million in economic activity and support 13,000 jobs. Similar to national trends, our smaller organizations are especially feeling the squeeze as funding shortfalls strain their ability to meet rising community demand. Yet Oregonians continue to value cultural offerings highly, positioning the sector as both an economic driver and a vital community resource.
Sobering statistics, indeed, yet we have an opportunity for you to be part of possible solutions.
We’re excited to remind you about the upcoming Big Re/Think convenings taking place across Oregon this fall. These gatherings are a chance for arts, culture, and heritage leaders to come together, share perspectives, and help shape a thriving future for arts and culture in our state.
Upcoming dates and locations:
- Baker City: Monday, October 6, 1-4 pm, Baker Heritage Museum
- Bend: Wednesday, October 8, 1-4 pm, High Desert Museum
- Newport: Tuesday, October 21, 1-4 pm, Newport Performing Arts Center
Your voice is an important part of this process. The insights shared at these convenings will directly inform our statewide strategy and the future of arts and culture investment in Oregon.
👉 Please RSVP today to ensure we can plan for your participation:
RSVP Baker City
RSVP Bend
RSVP Newport
If you’ve already registered, thank you—we look forward to seeing you! Feel free to share this invitation with colleagues and community members who should be part of the conversation.
Thank you for helping us rethink and reimagine Oregon’s cultural future together.
Questions? Reach out to Claire Blaylock, The Big Re/Think statewide engagement manager.
Thanks to our sponsors: Oregon Community Foundation, The Miller Foundation, Ronald W. Naito Foundation, and Roundhouse Foundation