The economic impact of museums on local economies

Abstract

As generalists, economic developers are cognisant of the tourism industry but very few consider themselves experts in determining and estimating the economic impact of museums in their local area.  In comparison to other professionals in the tourism and museum fields, economic developers have written relatively little on this topic and consequently, this paper will examine how cultural institutions impact local economies in the long and short term.  A general profile of Canada’s heritage institutions is presented, followed by a review of an exhibition which set a national standard.  The final case study is on Ottawa-Hull’s federally funded museums. The paper concludes with a number of policies that can be applied to communities to develop a successful tourism sector.

Keywords: museum, tourism, heritage institutions, Ottawa-Hull