Cost-benefit analysis of Ireland's Basic Income for the Arts pilot finds positive returns (assets.gov.ie)

• Every €1 invested in the BIA pilot returned €1.39 in societal value.
• Recipients increased time on artistic work by 4 hours/week and reduced non-arts work by 3 hours/week.
• Psychological wellbeing gains contributed the largest share of benefits, nearly €80 million.

"An official cost-benefit analysis of Ireland's Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot, which provided 2,000 artists with €325 per week for three years, finds that for every €1 of public money invested, society received €1.39 in return. The pilot improved artists' wellbeing, increased artistic output, and reduced reliance on social protection. Gross costs were €114m, but net fiscal cost was 37% lower due to tax returns and social welfare savings."