evidence: Legislative and local leaders throughout the state understand that investment in cultural and artistic assets is a 21st century strategy that will help Wisconsin, its communities, and its people, thrive. Despite this understanding, Wisconsin has lagged in investment in its creative economy, especially among its Midwest neighbors. Although the creative sector is an economic driver ripe with possibility for Wisconsin, the state’s 0.18 cents per capita spending for arts and culture puts us at 49th out of 50 states, and far below Minnesota’s $9+ per capita. Programs like Destination Iowa, established in 2022, provide a $100 million investment to bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s communities and attract visitors and new residents to the state.