The arts and culture industry in 2015 generated $150 million in economic activity for Delaware, according to a report commissioned by the Delaware Division of the Arts.

About $100 million came from nonprofit spending, which includes everything from purchasing supplies to paying employees. Another $50 million came from audience spending around arts and culture events. Attendees of these events often patronize local restaurants, shops, hotels and babysitters to watch their kids.

"This report demonstrates that the arts continue to be an important economic driver in Delaware, providing jobs for our citizens, generating business for our restaurants and other small enterprises, and tax revenue for our state and local governments. In addition to the important economic impacts, the arts benefit all Delawareans from children to senior citizens across the socioeconomic spectrum, and from rural communities to the cities," said J. Mack Wathen, chair of the Delaware State Arts Council.

The industry also produces 4,000 jobs, from nonprofit professionals to ticket takers at a music venue.

"Investment in the arts contributes to a stronger economy and improved quality of life which attracts a talented workforce to Delaware," said Guillermina Gonzalez, executive director of the Delaware Arts Alliance.