Who we
are

Create Wisconsin logo

Powering Wisconsin's Creative Economy

We are Wisconsin’s leading community cultural development organization. We act as a catalyst, connecting the creative sector—including non-profits and creative businesses—with policymakers and economic leaders to drive growth, tourism, and community vibrancy.

Our vision: A Wisconsin that is recognized nationally and globally as a top creative sector state, with opportunities thriving from the local level upward.


Our Mission

To support and uplift Wisconsin’s creative sector and its partners for the economic, educational, and civic health of the state and all of its residents.

The arts, culture, and creativity are the core of Wisconsin’s state identity. It is through uplifting creatives throughout the state that we can realize a better future for Wisconsin’s communities. Through individual advocacy and community-building, we can grow Wisconsin’s creative impact together.

We champion
policy for the arts

Investing in Wisconsin’s creative future relies on legislative support. Through advocacy and lobbying, Create Wisconsin is championing initiatives to create the resources necessary to support a thriving creative economy.

We uplift
artists

Create Wisconsin uplifts artists and local leaders in the arts by connecting creative communities across Wisconsin. Our strategy of advocacy and communication helps artists share their own voices, and amplifies those who are unable to speak up.

We provide
resources

One of the biggest barriers of access to the creative economy is knowledge. Create Wisconsin seeks to eliminate that barrier by connecting creatives to jobs in the state, providing resources for non-profits and small businesses, and by hosting events where creatives and policy-makers can connect.

We support
Wisconsin

By supporting the arts and creativity in the state, we support Wisconsin’s culture—from small towns to urban centers. Our creativity is what makes our state shine.

Meet Our Board

Carolyn Nelson-Kavajecz

President — Superior

Tom Targos

Secretary — Kenosha

Stephen Goodhart

Sheboygan

Melissa Kono

Independence

Kim Willems Mauthe

Appleton

Dr. Nicole Foster

Vice President — Ashland

Chris Clemens

Treasurer — Viroqua

Olivia Hill

Wausau

Sam Luna

Phelps

Zach Vruwink

Madison

Staff

Anne Katz

Executive Director

Kelly McDowell

Legislative Consultant

Matthias Goscha

Web Coordinator

Hailey Fuller

Social Media Coordinator

Our Sponsors

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