What We Do

Launched in 2009, this four-year program focuses on growing audiences for the arts. Funded by the Wallace Foundation, Arts Learning Xchange got its start by bestowing Excellence Awards upon eight major Twin Cities arts organizations to refine effective practices that introduce more people to the arts.

As a complement to that program, Arts Learning Xchange is collaborating with Arts Midwest and Minnesota Community Foundation to provide opportunities for all arts organizations to develop and benefit from a learning network that strengthens arts participation around the state.

With $1.6 million in funding from the Wallace Foundation, Arts Learning Xchange is committed to building knowledge-sharing resources and providing professional development opportunities. Additionally, a small pool of project grants is available to organizations working to deepen their relationships with arts patrons.

Our Impact

Arts Learning Xchange commissioned a report that identified the main challenges and opportunities facing Twin Cities arts organizations. In response to the key findings, the Arts Learning Xchange has provided a number of ancillary workshops and training opportunities, from a series of free lectures to workshops to forums related to arts marketing and audience development.

The program also provided 14 Twin Cities arts organizations with advanced training from the National Arts Marketing Project. As a follow-up, each organization received additional funding to implement their marketing plans. Arts Learning Xchange also provided 24 local organizations with travel scholarships to the 2010 Arts Marketing Conference.

The Role of Minnesota Community Foundation Foundation

Minnesota Community Foundation manages Arts Learning Xchange on behalf of the Wallace Foundation, which provides all of the funding. Working closely with Arts Midwest, Minnesota Community Foundation staff ensures that the funding is well invested in growing audiences for the arts.