For years, the arts community has been calling for a stronger connection between Minnesota’s vibrant creative sector and the state’s tourism efforts. We’re excited to share: it’s happening.

As a valued MCA member, you’re invited to a special webinar highlighting how Explore Minnesota is incorporating arts and culture into its new "Star of the North" campaign, and what that means for you.

Friday, May 29th, 10 - 11 AM

Join us for an inside look at how the state is telling Minnesota’s story through the arts, and how your work can be part of it.

In this webinar, you will:

• Get a first look at the Star of the North campaign

• Learn how arts and culture are being integrated into statewide tourism marketing

• Discover ways to connect your work with tourism audiences

• Explore opportunities to increase visibility and participation

We're pleased to feature:

• Kathryn Sutton, Deputy Director, Explore Minnesota

• Sarah Fossen, Executive Director, Minnesota Citizens for the Arts

Tourism is a powerful driver for the arts, and this is a long-awaited step forward. Don’t miss this opportunity to see what’s possible and how you can engage.

We’re excited to offer this conversation as part of your MCA membership benefits, and we hope you’ll join us.

REGISTER FOR WEBINAR

Protect Arts & Humanities Funding: Urge Congress to Support the NEA and NEH

Now is a critical moment to speak up for the future of arts and culture in communities across the country. As Congress begins work on the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, the President’s proposal includes drastically reduced funding intended to close both the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH). This comes just one year after a bipartisan majority of Congress recognized the value of these agencies and preserved their funding at $207 million each. The NEA and NEH are essential sources of support, awarding thousands of grants annually that reach every Congressional District—often to small and mid-sized organizations that expand access to arts and humanities programming where private funding cannot. Without this investment, communities risk losing vital cultural resources, educational opportunities, and economic benefits tied to the arts. Contact your Members of Congress today and urge them to continue this bipartisan support by preserving full funding for the NEA and NEH in FY 2027.

Contact Your Member of Congress!