Plans, Studies, & Reports

The 2013 Madison Culture Plan, the first of its kind in our region, convened broad sectors of the community and collectively drew a roadmap for strengthening Madison's cultural sector. A decade later, many of the recommendations from the plan have been accomplished, some have made major impacts on the local arts economy. Turning Breeze Stevens into a concert venue and establishing a Percent for Art Ordinance are the two most visible recommendations that were implemented from the 2013 Cultural Plan. The Madison Arts Commission intends to start laying the groundwork towards Madison's next Cultural Plan in 2026.

Madison Cultural Plan Executive Summary

Madison Cultural Plan

2020-2022 MAC Reports

2018-2019 MAC Reports

2016-2017 MAC Reports

2014-2015 MAC Report

Arts & Economic Prosperity is a periodic economic impact study of the nation’s nonprofit arts and culture industry. The study shows that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in Dane County's economic well-being. The resulting reports show the value that the nonprofit arts and culture industries have in Dane County.

In October 2023 Dane Arts released the findings of a comprehensive arts and economic impact study (AEP VI). The report was created in partnership with Americans for the Arts and Wisconsin Arts Board. The report shows that nearly $350m goes right back into the local economy through arts and culture.

2023 AEP VI one page summary

2023 AEP VI full report

2015 AEP V one page summary

2015 AEP V full report 

In 2013 the City undertook a study of the local performing arts environment. The study included a review of the performing arts community, facilities, audiences and funding scenarios. Webb Management Services and WolfBrown were the consulting team hired to conduct the study. They spent months working with a steering committee to interview and survey constituents. This included artist, arts managers, political and business leaders, educators and other community members. Their research helped us understand the state of the performing arts scene at that time. It also helped to suggest the facilities, infrastructure and partnerships required to attract, engage and serve Madison and regional residents.

Webb Performing Arts Report

Webb Findings Report

Consumer Survey Dashboard