NASAA recently released two research reports focusing on the role of arts in economic recovery. A study by Prof. Doug Noonan at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis provides empirical evidence that the arts and cultural sector can improve—not merely reflect—the health of the broader economy. A companion study from the Western States Arts Federation looks at data and communities from across the country to tell the story of how the arts build local economies. We kick off the NASAA 2021 Learning Series with a synopsis of key findings from each study, and a discussion of effective strategies state arts agencies can use to make the arts a relevant part of state economic development plans coming out of the COVID-19 crisis.