The Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs Has a New Name!

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs to announce that the state’s leading arts and culture agency is changing its name to the Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) effective today. 

“For more than 30 years, the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs has supported and nurtured Michigan’s vibrant arts and culture—stimulating Michigan’s economy, investing in communities, and enhancing quality of life,” said Governor Whitmer. “The new name reflects the leadership role the Council plays in ensuring that every citizen and community in Michigan enjoys the civic, economic and educational benefits of arts and culture. The MACC will help us continue putting Michiganders first and building a state where every working family can thrive.”  

The Michigan Arts and Culture Council, an agency within the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, serves to encourage, develop and facilitate an enriched environment of artistic, creative and cultural activity in Michigan. Through competitive grant programs, MACC encourages arts and culture organizations, cities and municipalities, educational institutions, and other nonprofit organizations to develop and facilitate an enriched environment of artistic, creative and cultural activity in Michigan.  

In fiscal year 2021, MACC made a total of $9.1 million in 766 grant awards to arts and culture organizations in 72 of Michigan’s 83 counties. Michigan’s creative economy contributes nearly 89,000 jobs in more than 10,000 businesses, ultimately generating more than $4.09 billion in wages for Michiganders.  

“After years of knowing we needed to update our name, we are looking forward to moving ahead with a new name and soon, a new logo,” said MACC Director Alison Watson. “Our name may have changed, but we are and will continue to be committed to ensuring that every citizen and every community in our great state enjoys the civic, economic and educational benefits of arts and culture.” 

Arts and culture contribute powerfully to the vibrancy of Michigan cities and communities, creating great places to live, work, and visit, and destinations that attract talent and business investment. For example, with support from $215,649 in grant funds from MACC, the city of Holland is working collaboratively with local organizations, colleges, schools, and the private sector to enrich the quality of life for the residents through high-quality productions, educational programming, and a wide range of art exhibits and cultural events. 

To learn more about the Michigan Arts and Culture Council, visit www.michigan.gov/arts.