We have published sector-shaping studies, including our landmark collaboration with Arup on the scale of capital investment needed for arts centres. Alongside major reports, we produce annual insight surveys, salary benchmarking, and pulse surveys that capture the lived experience of our members and the challenges they face. We also use methodologies such as Most Significant Change to tell the powerful, human stories behind the data.

Looking ahead, we are planning to expand our research programme to draw on national datasets while working closely with members to capture local evidence such as footfall, community use, and social value. This helps us make the case that arts centres deliver extraordinary value for money and reach people other organisations don’t.

We are also building partnerships with universities and researchers to deepen understanding of the sector. These include the University of Manchester, Goldsmiths University and the University of Lincoln.

Through this combination of data, stories, and partnerships, Future Arts Centres is ensuring the unique contribution of arts centres is recognised, evidenced, and championed at every level.