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Tourism Receives Budget Boost
June 27, 2011
Budget provides additional funds for tourism marketing
MADISON, Wis. (June 27, 2011) – Governor Walker’s new budget signed into law on June 26 increases the Department of Tourism’s marketing budget by $2.54 million per year, or nearly 20 percent. The Department’s promotional budget now stands at $12.3 million for each of the next two fiscal years. Marketing, operational expenses and the inclusion of the Wisconsin Arts Board bring the total department budget to just over $17 million.
The news was positively received by the tourism and hospitality industry, which in 2010, supported nearly 300,000 jobs in the state.
“The Governor, with the support of the legislature, recognizes the power of tourism to grow the economy, create jobs and improve the image of the state," Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett said. "This additional investment, coupled with research-based marketing, means Wisconsin can compete more effectively with other states in the Midwest. The additional funds also provide us with the resources to better compete for the lucrative meeting and convention business.”
The additional appropriation gives the Department the ability to drive traveler spending in the state through effective marketing. A recent study conducted by the Department of Tourism shows that for every dollar spent on the 2010 summer and fall advertising campaign Wisconsin received $7 in state and local taxes from incremental traveler spending.
The mission of the Wisconsin Department of Tourism is to market the state as the Midwest’s premier travel destination by executing industry-leading marketing programs and establishing strategic partnerships. The Department plays a significant role in generating greater economic impact and jobs for Wisconsin. The portal for traveler information can be found at: www.travelwisconsin.com.
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