State Budget Increases. Our collective cultural advocacy efforts continued this year, resulting in increased appropriations for the VAC, Vermont Humanities, and a special appropriation for the Vermont Symphony Orchestra's statewide anniversary programming next year. There was broad support for this increase across the legislature, demonstrating the role that arts and culture are playing in statewide conversations about economic recovery and community revitalization.

Public Art in State Buildings. Gov. Phil Scott signed Act 50 into law on June 6. This legislation, introduced by Reps. Sara Coffey and Butch Shaw, provides much needed updates to the Vermont Art in State Buildings (AISB) program--most notably, a new funding mechanism that sets a minimum appropriation of $75,000 (up from a maximum of $50,000). This is great news as the AISB program has not seen an increase since it was established. Since 1988, the program has commissioned artwork from over 60 artists to appear in 35 state-owned buildings and public spaces across Vermont, providing enjoyment and a source of pride for all Vermonters. 

Creative Sector Day at the Vermont Statehouse. The VAC, VCN, Vermont Humanities, Generator, and other creative sector supporters from across the state met with legislators on Feb. 15 as a part of Creative Sector Day at the Vermont Statehouse. Testimony was given in numerous House Committees to demonstrate the power of arts and culture to transform lives, energize the economy, and sustain Vermont’s vibrant cultural landscape. Rep. Stephanie Jerome read resolution HCR 28 supporting the state’s creative economy. View the photos.

Creative Futures Funding. A historic level of investment in Vermont’s creative sector was made during the 2022 legislative session to support the continued recovery and revitalization of Vermont’s creative industries, including $9 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding to the VAC for its Creative Futures grant program, which provides up to $200,000 in direct grants to creative sector nonprofits and for-profits in their pandemic recovery. We shared with legislators the ways in which these historic investments are helping creative enterprises rebound from the pandemic, build resiliency, and pave the way for a more vibrant, prosperous future for all Vermont. The final application round for this funding closed on June 30. You can find stories on social media of the ways that these grants are making a difference by using #vermontcreativefutures.