The Economic Impact of Amateur Sports in Alaska

Abstract

Amateur sports events and competitions can generate significant net economic benefits for host economies. The major impact of amateur sports on the local and regional economy is an increase in the amenity values enjoyed by the citizenry. Amateur sports provide a wider variety of experiences for the population; sports programs and competitions improve the quality of life. In addition to the amenity value increases, being the venue for amateur sports competitions brings additional spending into the local economy. For instance, it is estimated that the Great Alaska Shootout could be responsible for as much as $300,000 of additional spending into the Anchorage economy. This additional spending is added to the income of the local economy and generates subsequent levels of spending. Based on assumptions about the number of visitors and the additional spending that takes place as a result of these competitions and the value of the multiplier process it is possible to estimate their net economic on the economy. This report concludes that there are a number of ways that the public sector could support local organizations and the economic benefits that arise from amateur sports events and competitions.