The Department of Tourism in Wisconsin focuses on marketing the state as a premier travel destination, significantly impacting the state’s economy by supporting the tourism industry. With a small portion of the state budget and workforce, it collaborates with the Wisconsin Council on Tourism, committee members, and industry partners to keep tourism as a leading industry in the state.
The Joint Effort Marketing (JEM) Grant Program is designed to provide financial assistance to Wisconsin nonprofit organizations for promoting events or attractions that stimulate economic growth and tourism. The program offers five categories of grants, with a focus on Destination Marketing, which includes a development option for conducting research into a region's unique qualities and a marketing option to utilize that research for promotional efforts. The program emphasizes collaboration among at least three municipalities or communities, aiming to boost visitor expenditures and support the local economy off-season or when tourism business is needed most. The JEM grants serve as a catalyst for communities, enabling them to make a significant economic impact and create job opportunities.