Creative Places Pathway

The Creative Places Pathway is a roadmap that any Iowa community, of any size, can follow to improve community and economic development outcomes by leveraging the arts, culture, and creativity. Communities following the Pathway form a shared vision and set of prioritized projects that build upon their local assets in the arts, culture and heritage and authentic sense of place. 

How to Use the Pathway

Creative community development is a long-term effort. Each stage in the process includes steps that build on each other and create the momentum necessary to accomplish your long-term vision and goals. The Creative Places Pathway is a process to help you organize your efforts, access coaching and support, and identify the right resources along the way.  

The Pathway also helps communities of all sizes identify their creative and cultural assets - the first step to successful creative community development. 

Benefits of Using the Pathway 

As partners with the Iowa Arts Council (IAC), communities following the Pathway may:

  • Access technical assistance and training
  • Attend convenings that provide opportunities for peer learning and mentorship, share best practices, and exchange ideas.
  • Apply for competitive funding opportunities tailored to creative places.
  • Receive recognition for impactful projects and successes.

How to Get Started

Step 1: Tell us a little about your community and its vision, plans, and partners in Art Form Part 1. We’ll then follow up with you to schedule a time to visit.  

Step 2: Already working on a project? Tell us about it through Art Form Part 2. We’ll then follow up with you to discuss the project. 

Creative Places Pathway Overview
2.21 MB .pdf