For more information contact:
Valeria Davis, 608/266-2147, vdavis@travelwisconsin.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TOURISM GRANTS CONTINUE TO BOOST ECONOMIC GROWTH
Fiscal year 2006 Joint Effort Marketing Grant awards to generate an estimated $30 million for local economies
View a map of all JEM grants awarded in Fiscal Year 2006
MADISON, Wis (August 11, 2006) -- Wisconsin's local economies are expected to benefit from more than $30 million in traveler spending as a result of the state Department of Tourism's 2006 Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) grant program. More than $1.35 million was awarded to 52 non-profit organizations across the state this past fiscal year to support special events, sales promotions or destination marketing campaigns.
"Travelers are attracted to Wisconsin because of all it has to offer, and I'm proud we can support our business owners and community leaders who play such a vital role in building and supporting our state's strong and growing economy," Governor Jim Doyle said. "Wisconsin has a well-earned reputation for creating one-of-a kind events, as well as recreational activities for the whole family, and we want people to enjoy our beautiful state year after year."
According to the 2005 Economic Impact of Expenditures by Travelers on Wisconsin study, travel spending in Wisconsin generated more than 308,000 travel industry jobs and $6.7 billion in income for Wisconsin residents.
The 52 JEM projects funded through the grant program in the 2006 fiscal year (July 1, 2005-June 30, 2006) included promotion of outdoor education and exploration events, international film festivals, the grand opening of the landmark Overture Center's Contemporary Museum of Art in Madison, book festivals, regional ethnic and heritage events, top Midwest music festivals, one-of-a-kind performances by national theater and directing companies, and exquisite art and cultural exhibits.
"Joint Effort Marketing grants give Wisconsin communities and organizations the opportunity to bring good ideas to life and sustain them until they become successful events and attractions," said Department of Tourism Secretary Jim Holperin. "We see it in the tremendous array of events across the state that were launched with the help of JEM grants. Many are now self-sufficient, profitable and celebrating notable anniversaries in drawing travelers to their community."
For example, Wausau's Artrageous Weekend was organized in 1988. JEM grants received in 1992, 1993 and 1994 helped to raise the event's profile so that it gained name recognition and crossed a threshold into what is now a 18-year-old successful tradition in central Wisconsin.
Among the marketing proposals selected for funding this past year included the Beloit International Film Festival, which drew filmmakers, producers, writers, actors and fans to the area for a World Cinema film showcase and Midwest Film Competition. Shored up with a $38,915 event JEM grant, the festival drew travelers from around the Midwest and brought $200,000 in January traveler spending to the Stateline area.
Finally, the Paine Art Center Oshkosh was awarded a $28,400 JEM grant to help promote a one-of-a-kind exhibit of original Tiffany lamps created by American artist and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany. World-renown for the beauty and craftsmanship of his work, this exclusive exhibit is the most comprehensive display of original electric lamps created by Tiffany. The 4-month exhibit is expected to bring more than 40,000 visitors to the Paine Art Center and boost traveler spending in the Oshkosh/Appleton area by $4 million.
The JEM program provides funds for destination marketing projects, sales promotions, and new, existing and one-time, one-of-a-kind events. In the 2006 fiscal year, the Wisconsin Department of Tourism received 88 applications for JEM funding.
The JEM program also assists communities in marketing leisure travel opportunities. The Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc., received a $30,000 JEM grant to market statewide tribal lands as fall motorcycle destinations. The "American Iron Poker Run Across Wisconsin" promotional campaign is expected to bring more than $375,000 to the region and help establish its reputation through events featuring the area's casinos.
"The JEM program is a very competitive program and non-profit organizations interested in applying should allow ample time to plan their budget and write their proposal. The application process includes how a Joint Effort Marketing grant will impact their community economy," said Holperin.
The JEM program is available to non-profit organizations for promotion of Wisconsin tourism events and destinations. The state can fund up to 75 percent of a project's first year advertising and marketing costs. The program may grant also provide support for some second and third year projects, but with decreasing amounts for funding each year, leading to projects become self-sustaining. All projects must be consistent with the statewide tourism marketing strategy.
Editors Note: For detailed economic impact figures for projects in your area, please contact Valeria Davis at 608/266-2147, or vdavis@travelwisconsin.com
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