If you're having trouble reading this email, view the web version. | Visit us at www.innovationphiladelphia.com

The Insider: Philadelphia Region’s For-Profit Creative Economy = Nearly $60 Billion Industry

Innovation Philadelphia yesterday unveiled preliminary findings from its new study, Creative Footprint, that measures the size, scope and impact of the for-profit creative economy. Creative Footprint shows that in 2005, creative industry employment within the Philadelphia Region generated a total economic impact of nearly $60 billion in total spending which includes $32.5 billion in total earnings and supports a total of 766,000 jobs – ranking the for-profit creative industry among one of the top industries in the region.

Notable highlights from the study include:

$1.22 billion in taxes returned to state and local communities.
Philadelphia’s creative workers’ earnings increased by 19% between 2003-2005, which was the fastest growth rate in the U.S.
12% of the workforce in the for-profit creative industries are comprised of self-employed individuals
Average annual salaries of those working in for-profit creative industries are 45% higher than those in non-creative industries
6% creative industry firms (roughly 780) are owned by ethnic minorities and nearly 16% (approximately 2,000) are female-owned
Nearly 12,000 degrees or a total of 21% in majors and programs directly related to for-profit creative economy occupations were awarded by colleges and universities in the Philadelphia region in 2006

» Read the full story

Innovation Spotlight: Breaking Through the News Clutter

Innovation Philadelphia spotlights regional creative industry entrepreneurs, young professionals making an impact on the Philadelphia region, or innovative initiatives that showcase the tremendous innovative and creative talent driving Philadelphia's economy.

December's Spotlight on Creativity is young professional, Kristie Gonzales, creative services writer/producer for 6ABC-TV. She writes, edits and produces spots for 6abc; from news teases for investigative reports to promoting special 6abc events. Kristie’s day-to-day challenge is to break through “news clutter” and promote news stories in a way that will lure viewers to tune into the newscast.

So exactly why does she work in Philadelphia? "Philly is brimming with young, intelligent professionals. It's vibrant and fun, and there's a special charm here you won’t find anywhere else."

» Read More

Your Opinion Counts

Choosing a neighborhood to start a business is crucial. Philadelphia has invaluable benefits of creating a business here. Philadelphia entrepreneurs were asked in a recent poll what neighborhood is best to start a business. The results of the first poll are in:

To spur new business development and growth, we are asking what resource is most important for your business.

Vote now!

Do you know an entrepreneur who is passionate about creativity?

In an effort to promote the Philadelphia Region’s young professionals, entrepreneurs and creative businesses, Innovation Philadelphia spotlights regional creative industry entrepreneurs making an impact on the region, or innovative initiatives that showcase the tremendous innovative and creative talent driving Philadelphia’s economy.

There is no limit to creativity or innovation. We welcome all stories and are interested in hearing why Philadelphia is a creative place to live, work and play.

All entries should be submitted to Andrew Davis at adavis@innovationphiladelphia.com

You are receiving this newsletter because you opted-in on our website or at one of our events. To ensure delivery of our emails, please add enews@innovationphiladelphia.com to your address book.