Associated Bank partners with Milwaukee Rep to strengthen local arts & economy

Summary:

Associated Bank partners with the Milwaukee Rep to boost local arts, economy and community engagement in southeast Wisconsin.

The arts play a crucial role in southeast Wisconsin, contributing to job and workforce development as well as overall economic activity. According to the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF), in 2022, local arts organizations contributed to an impressive $334 million in economic activity and supported approximately 4,550 jobs. Milwaukee’s vibrant arts scene has earned the city recognition as a top place for young professionals by Forbes Advisor in 2024, further underscoring the importance of cultural engagement in attracting talent.

Results like these are why Associated Bank has built a partnership with the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre.

Associated Bank EVP/Chief Product & Marketing Officer Bryan Carson is a member of the Rep’s board. “The Milwaukee Rep is a cultural landmark that Associated Bank is proud to be neighbors and partners with,” he says. “Working with them to bring their longtime downtown home up to the needs of today’s audiences—and continue to deliver the very best in regional theatre—is a natural fit. We are both committed to making Milwaukee a vibrant place to live and work.”

Through its work with the Milwaukee Rep, Associated Bank demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering cultural enrichment in the community. This partnership not only enhances their ability to present exceptional performances but also elevates the overall appeal of Milwaukee as a destination for arts and entertainment.

Associated Bank not only provides financial support to UPAF and the Milwaukee Rep but also encourages colleague volunteerism, fostering a corporate culture that values community involvement. This dedication not only strengthens client relationships but also enhances brand loyalty, distinguishing Associated Bank in a competitive marketplace.

The impact of supporting local arts goes beyond economic metrics. Participation in the arts cultivates essential life skills in the next generation of leaders, teaching leadership, problem-solving and creativity while boosting confidence. The arts also celebrate cultural diversity, offering perspectives that help unite and educate.

Supporting organizations like the Milwaukee Rep ensures not just cultural vitality but also economic stability. In a state that ranks low in arts funding per capita, it is crucial for businesses to forge partnerships with local arts groups.

By ensuring the sustainability of these cultural institutions, Associated Bank and its partners enrich the community and Milwaukee’s economic future—because ultimately, when the arts thrive, so does the local economy, setting the stage for a vibrant environment for all residents.

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