Milwaukee, WI, February 19, 2025 – Imagine MKE, Greater Milwaukee’s only nonprofit dedicated to advancing and advocating for the region’s entire arts, culture, and creative sector, issued the following statement in response to Governor Tony Evers’ proposed 2025-2027 biennial state budget, which included funding to address three sector priorities.

 

“Imagine MKE applauds the inclusion of this much needed investment in our state’s arts, culture, and creative industries in the proposed 2025-2027 budget. It’s an important first step,” said Imagine MKE Executive Director Christine Hojnacki.

 

“We will work closely with partners and advocates in Milwaukee and statewide to amplify the understanding that this critical investment is one that will strengthen and grow not just this sector, but the broader Wisconsin economy. It’s a vital investment that benefits us all. That’s why we urge all state legislators to pass a final budget that invests in our creative economy and overall quality of life.”

 

The proposed budget includes:

• An annual funding increase for the Wisconsin Arts Board that raises the per capita spending for the arts, culture, and creative sector from $0.18 to an estimated $0.68, as well as an increase in matching funding for grants. If passed, this increase would move Wisconsin 49th to 38th in per capita spending nationwide.

• Funding for a new Rural Wisconsin Creative Economy Grant Program to support the promotion and development of artistic and cultural creative enterprises in rural Wisconsin.

• Funding to establish a Wisconsin Office of Film and Creative Industries and Film Tax Incentives to attract and compete for film projects produced in Wisconsin. (More information at Action Wisconsin.)

More information about these legislative priorities is available at Create Wisconsin Action Center.

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About Imagine MKE

Imagine MKE drives vibrancy, prosperity, and systemic change in the Greater Milwaukee area by advancing and advocating for the region's arts, culture, and creative industries.