Cities can incorporate a variety of strategies based upon three key components when seeking ways to incorporate creative economy options in planning for cities of culture. The policy recommendations include: strategic planning and research; the development and fostering of partnerships; and the integration of economic benefit and public good into the economic development paradigm. The strong ties established between the city and private sector actors were groundbreaking and were part of a culture of collaboration initiated by the municipality. Cultural policy that calls for participation by the public as well as by thought leaders in ideating and implementing proposals for any kind of urban project involving arts and culture would be a welcomed option for creating a sense of inclusion. In Toronto and New York, arts and culture provided benefits that were manifest in both the realm of public good and that of economic strength.