The Ignacio Creative District (ICD) has been certified by Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), Colorado’s designated state arts agency and a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), joining a total of 37 certified creative districts across the state. Each district is recognized for strengthening local economies and civic life through creativity, culture, and collaboration. “This achievement represents years of dedication from our community,” said Eva Lewis, Director of the ICD. “It’s a proud moment for so many people who have been part of the journey and proof that a collaborative community can truly shape the future. We are both honored and optimistic to be joining CCI.”
The road to certification was a long and determined one as the ICD steadily built its foundation through numerous partnerships, projects, and community engagement initiatives. With state certification, the ICD gains access to expanded resources that will help strengthen the region’s growing creative economy. The ICD plans to continue developing innovative,
community-centered programs that celebrate art, culture, and creative enterprise — ensuring that the district continues to “grow with, and for, the community.”
“The certification of the Ignacio Creative District is a milestone moment for southwest Colorado and an authentic demonstration of how creativity strengthens communities,” said Josh Blanchard, Director of Colorado Creative Industries. “Ignacio’s leadership in the arts drives local economies, deepens cultural Identity and reflects the collaborative spirit that defines Colorado’s growing network of creative districts”
In Colorado, the creative industries are recognized as a key contributor to quality of life and a significant contributor to the state’s economy. Arts and culture contribute $19.7 billion, or 3.7% of the state’s economy, and support over 121,000 jobs across Colorado. The ICD is proud to add its energy, vision, and creativity to that statewide momentum.
Ignacio Creative District
The Ignacio Creative District (ICD) is a collaborative of artists, creatives, and community partners dedicated to fostering creative expression, cultural vitality, and economic growth in Southwest Colorado. Through innovative programming and partnerships, the ICD celebrates local talent and strengthens our collective identity as a thriving creative community. For more information about the Ignacio Creative District and upcoming programs, visit ignaciocreativedistrict.org
Colorado Creative Industries
Colorado’s Creative Industries Division, Colorado’s state arts agency, is a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Established to capitalize on the immense potential for our creative sector to enhance economic growth in Colorado, the mission of Colorado Creative Industries is to promote, support and expand the creative industries to drive Colorado’s economy, grow jobs and enhance our quality of life. oedit.colorado.gov/colorado-creative-industries
About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT)
The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of
growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.