What is DataArts and the Cultural Data Profile (CDP) or Survey?

SMU DataArts Mission
To provide and engage organizations and individuals with the evidence-based insights needed to collectively build strong, vibrant, and equitable arts communities.

SMU DataArts Work
We employ cutting-edge research techniques and high-powered computing to test hypotheses, build theory, and increase understanding of the arts and cultural sector. Our research efforts range from academic papers published in leading journals, applied research undertaken with community partners, and actionable insights shared directly with arts practitioners.

SMU DataArts Strategy
SMU DataArts is pursuing a three-year strategy (FY 2023-2025) emphasizing our core identity as a leading research center. This includes deepening our research and data integration capabilities, continuing to share high-quality insights with the field, and prioritizing ways we can contribute to more equitable funding models. Read our plan.

Learn more about SMU DataArts

The Cultural Data Profile (CDP) or Survey, is a standardized online form completed annually by approximately 10,000 cultural organizations as a common component of grant applications to hundreds of participating grant programs nationwide. With more than 40,000 data profiles submitted in the last decade, DataArts is the gold standard source for reliable, longitudinal data that tells a richly detailed story of the assets and finances, and activities of America’s cultural nonprofits.

Most arts and culture organizations who create a Cultural Data Profile account do so because they are applying to a grantmaker that has made the CDP a requirement of their grant application guidelines. Feel free to view the list of participating grantmakers here: www.culturaldata.org/partners/grantmakers/

As a participant in the Cultural Data Profile, organizations gain access to reporting tools that help paint a clear picture of both your organization and sector. Want to see how your fundraising is stacking up or report on your organization’s financial health? There's a report for that. You can also monitor trends over time, compare your organization to others like it, and identify ways to improve your results.

Learn more about the Cultural Data Profile (CDP)