Appleton Downtown, Inc., the Trout Museum of Art, and the global venture capital firm gener8tor will launch the Creative Professionals Talent Recruitment Initiative with an informational gathering June 17.
There will be drinks and hors d’oeuvres from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Trout Museum of Art, 325 E. College Ave., Appleton. RSVP here.
Sponsored by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s Talent Recruitment Grant, this is a new collaborative effort designed to attract, relocate, and support artists, musicians, performers, designers, makers, filmmakers, and creative entrepreneurs in Appleton and the Fox Cities region.
The program aims to recruit and relocate 20 creative professionals from outside Wisconsin to the Fox Cities through a combination of relocation and grant support of $12,500, professional development programming, mentorship, networking opportunities, and community partnerships.
“This initiative reflects a broader vision for Appleton and the Fox Cities as a place where creative people can thrive,” said Jennifer Stephany, Director of Appleton Downtown, Inc. “By creating pathways for artists and creative entrepreneurs to build sustainable careers here, we are investing in the future cultural and economic vitality of the region.”
Participants in the program will receive grants, relocation stipends, moving assistance, housing support, and down-payment assistance opportunities, as well as subsidized studio or creative workspace. Additionally, the cohort will join the gener8tor Art professional development accelerator program, which offers one-on-one mentorship and professional development workshops; exhibition, performance, and teaching opportunities; and connections to local businesses, arts organizations, and economic development networks.
“Creative professionals play an essential role in building vibrant communities and strong local economies,” said Maureen Ragalie, Managing Director of gener8tor Art. “This initiative is about investing directly in people who contribute to culture, innovation, entrepreneurship, and quality of life while helping position Appleton as one of Wisconsin’s leading creative communities.”
The Creative Professionals Talent Recruitment Initiative was developed in response to growing conversations around workforce attraction, population growth, and creative economy development in Wisconsin.
“Arts and culture are powerful economic drivers,” said Christina Turner, Executive Director of the Trout Museum of Art. “Investing in art and artists helps create a more vibrant community, supports local businesses, attracts visitors, and strengthens talent recruitment in other sectors.”
The program will be supported through partnerships with local arts organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and economic development leaders, including Appleton Downtown Inc., Trout Museum of Art, regional employers, housing partners, and community organizations.
Applications and additional program details will be announced in the coming months.
