Assembly Bill 159 establishes a Rural Creative Economy Development Grant Program, which will be administered by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). The program aims to provide competitive grants to various eligible applicants, including cities, towns, counties, American Indian tribes, economic development organizations, and nonprofit organizations within Wisconsin. The grants, which can be up to $50,000, are intended to support initiatives that enhance tourism, improve visitor experiences, and foster community development in rural areas through creative enterprises. Eligible uses of the grant funds include supporting public arts, renovating public spaces, and marketing local creative initiatives.

To qualify for a grant, applicants must match the grant amount with funds raised from nonstate sources, with a limit of 25% of the match being in-kind contributions. The bill also mandates that WEDC submit a report on the effectiveness of the grant program to the Joint Committee on Finance by May 1, 2027. This initiative is designed to bolster the creative economy in rural Wisconsin, ensuring that funds are utilized specifically for the benefit of these communities.