The South African Festivals Economic Impact Calculator (SAFEIC) is a free online tool developed by the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) specifically for cultural festivals and events. SAFEIC can be used to estimate the economic impact of a festival on a host economy. Anyone can use this free calculator to measure the impact of a festival or event on their local economy.
To access the festival economic impact calculator, click here.

The South African Festivals Economic Impact Calculator (SAFEIC) was developed for the South African Cultural Observatory (SACO) by Prof Bruce Seaman from Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia, and Prof Jen Snowball, Chief Research Strategist of the South African Cultural Observatory, and a professor at Rhodes University.

Economic impact studies attempt to answer the question: ‘If the event had not taken place, what would the loss of economic activity to the impact area have been?’ An economic impact study thus calculates all the additional economic activity that takes place in the region as a result of the event or festival – this includes spending patterns on accommodation, daily expenditure on food, souvenirs and other purchases – excluding tickets.

The South African Festivals Economic Impact Calculator (SAFEIC) is a free online tool that can be used by anyone at no cost. It was developed by the South African Cultural Observatory, a research centre and think tank for the arts, culture and heritage sectors and the creative and cultural industries, funded by the Department of Arts and Culture.