MADISON, Wis. — The Dane County Arts and Cultural Affairs Commission (Dane Arts), announced plans for its fifth annual Business of Art Conference, set for April 23–24, 2026.
The theme, “The Arts in Community, Education, and Business,” highlights the work of local creatives who contribute to Dane County’s cultural and economic vitality.
The conference invites artists, educators and entrepreneurs to explore how the arts intersect with community-building, lifelong learning and small business success.
Attendees will hear from working artists and creative professionals about sustaining small businesses, generating revenue and integrating the arts into community and educational programs.
Workshops are set to cover topics such as marketing, budgeting, portfolio development, contracts, implementing arts in community settings and arts-focused education strategies.
“This conference is for working creatives in the arts across disciplines, and with those who work on community engagement, education, and business strategies,” Dane Arts Director Mark Fraire said. “This conference highlights the immense value that artists bring to our community—not just through their creativity but also their contributions to our local economy and well-being.”
Dane County Executive Melissa Agard added that equipping artists with business and professional tools helps strengthen the broader community.
The two-day conference will be held at the Arts + Literature Lab, 111 S. Livingston St., and at StartingBlock Madison across the street from 821 E. Washington Ave.
The registration fee is $200, with an early bird rate of $125 available through March 16. Registration opens in early 2026, and limited work-volunteer scholarships and sponsorship opportunities are available.
Dane Arts cites research showing that nearly $350 million flows into Dane County’s economy through arts and culture annually, according to a 2023 Americans for the Arts Economic Impact Study.
For more information, email fraire.mark@danecounty.gov.
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