<p>The creative sector is Chicago’s third-largest industry and accounts for nearly 213,000 jobs, according to a new economic impact study released Thursday by Arts Alliance Illinois, a statewide advocacy organization.</p><p>The group also released a statewide version of the study. Arts Alliance Illinois Executive Director Claire Rice said this is the most comprehensive report of this kind the group has conducted and that the findings provide arts organizations and advocates with concrete numbers that can be used to push for funding and policy changes across levels of government.</p><p>“Today marks an important milestone in how we understand the creative economy in Chicago and across Illinois,” Rice said during a press briefing Wednesday. “These reports help quantify what many have long known: Creativity is a major driver of jobs, economic activity and community vitality across our city and our state.”</p><p>The report states that only healthcare and professional, scientific and technical services make up larger workforces in Chicago.