Milliken, an innovation company, has been recognised by Americans for the Arts, the nation's leading non-profit organisation for advancing the arts and arts education, as one of the BCA 10: Best Businesses Partnering with the Arts in America for 2014.

“I am once again pleased to celebrate such an impressive array of BCA 10 honourees that span business size, industry and geographic locations," commented Robert Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts.

“Each year, the BCA 10 sets the standard for other businesses by upholding the arts as an integral part of office culture, the community and the local economy. Through financial and in-kind support, employee volunteer hours and workplace arts initiatives, these businesses ensure arts access for current and future generations, in addition to serving as successful and inspiring models of business arts support.”

Inspiring innovation

Every year, Americans for the Arts, through the Business Committee for the Arts, recognises ten US companies for their exceptional commitment to the arts through grants, local partnerships, volunteer programmes, matching gifts, sponsorships and board membership.

According to Milliken, its commitment to the arts spans its entire history. Complementing a heritage of support for the arts, the Milliken corporate campus abounds with artwork in the form of notable sculptures, paintings, murals, mosaics and fountains which enhance the creative spirit and inspire innovation.

“Communities with thriving arts programmes are proven to exude stronger and more vibrant cultures – and dare to do good for the world,” said Joe Salley, President and CEO of Milliken & Company. “The arts open our minds to the seemingly impossible and help us think with fresh perspectives, which is what our nearly 7,000 associates worldwide do every day to bring the Milliken spirit of innovation to life.”

Well-deserved recognition

The advancement of the arts profoundly impacts every industry that Milliken serves, the company reports.

Milliken also works to advance the arts and arts education within particular industries. In the architecture and design community, Milliken is a strong advocate of passionate design educators and is a sponsor of the International Interior Design Association (IIDA) Educator of the Year Award.

“It was a privilege to nominate Milliken & Company for its decades of unwavering support, and now it is extremely exciting to celebrate this well-deserved national recognition,” Jennifer Evins, President and CEO of Chapman Cultural Center/The Arts Partnership, said.

www.milliken.com