WCEF OVERVIEW

Around the world, there has been an exciting new focus on promoting the creative and cultural industries as a major economic force. Countries, states, and communities have examined the importance of culture's economic contribution, and have recognized that the commercial and nonprofit arts and culture enterprises are of vital importance in terms of employment, education, community empowerment, economic competitiveness, and quality of life.

In Louisiana, the business of culture has taken center stage. To leverage the state's unique heritage and to ensure that it becomes the driving force and embodiment of a global cultural economy, the Office of Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu and the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism have developed the World Cultural Economic Forum (WCEF). The WCEF is positioned to become the "Davos" (World Economic Forum) of culture, hosting a spectrum of international participation.

Scheduled for October 2008 and annually thereafter, the WCEF is designed to build cultural economic development opportunities through the strategic convening of cultural ambassadors and leaders from around the world. Participants will explore best practices and engage in critical conversations designed to improve our cultural economies and to grow culture and creativity. In addition, the convening will allow participants to promote their assets, expand markets, and discover avenues to success.