This study focusses on the analysis of the competitiveness and economic relevance of the European cultural and creative industries (CCI). It includes an overview of the most important indicators regarding the economic situation of European creative industries and analyses of the necessary framework conditions fostering a positive future development against the background of economic and societal trends. This study includes 5 detailed case studies on national and 10 on regional strategies/initiatives to support CCI and derives central factors for policy learning and further recommendations for possible actions for an EU-wide CCI strategy.