Hey there, folks! Governor Tony Evers here.

This week, we’re celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week here in Wisconsin.

Folks, tourism is a powerhouse of economic development and prosperity in our state, including a record-breaking—get this—$25.8 billion in economic impact in 2024, generating a record $1.7 billion in state and local revenue.

That’s money that goes right back into our state and our communities, and that is a big deal!

That’s why over the last several years, I’ve been proud to help support our state’s tourism industry by making smart, strategic investments.

I was proud to create our Office of Outdoor Recreation in my very first budget as governor, and I’m glad we made that office permanent in our most recent state budget.

Not only that, but we also created our brand-new Wisconsin Film Office—along with our new film tax credit program.

This new office will bring creative projects right to Wisconsin’s doorstep and inspire folks to visit and see what Wisconsin is all about.

A big part of our work to support our state’s travel and tourism industry has included investing in building projects and infrastructure to encourage its continued growth.

That includes projects like theater upgrades at American Players Theatre in Spring Green and museum expansions like the Railroad Museum in Ashwaubenon.

We have also invested in our recreation industry by supporting projects at Mt. Telemark Village and Sauk State Trail, and a brand-new sports complex in Janesville.

All of these projects not only create new experiences and opportunities for visitors and locals alike, but they also support strong economies and family-supporting jobs.

That’s why, this week, I’m excited to be announcing grants through our successful Non-State Grant Program, so we can continue to support projects like this that bolster our communities and economies, create jobs, and help make our state the great place it is to live, work, and, of course, visit.

So, with that, happy National Travel and Tourism Week, Wisconsin!