WI AB159

Creates a rural creative economy development grant program administered by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC), with grants up to $50,000 awarded competitively to municipalities, counties, tribes, economic development organizations, and nonprofits

Eligible uses include developing tourism and community development plans through creative enterprises, supporting public arts performances and exhibitions, renovating public spaces and vacant buildings, community arts education, and business accelerator programs for creative businesses

Defines "rural area" as cities/towns/villages under 10,000 population, non-urbanized areas per federal census definition, or counties under 55,000 population

Requires grant recipients to provide 1:1 matching funds from non-state sources, with no more than 25% of the match allowed as in-kind contributions

WEDC must submit an effectiveness report on the grant program to the Joint Committee on Finance by May 1, 2027