Welcome to the Kansas Arts Network’s Advocacy Center. On this page we’ll share current information about arts legislation and issues, as well as calls for action. Arts supporters can make an impact by speaking up for the issues they care about. We encourage all Kansans to be informed and communicate with their elected officials in support of the arts.

Kansas Department of Commerce Creative Arts Industries Commission logo with "Ad Astra Per Aspera" banner and stars.

Support Funding for the Kansas Arts Commission

The Kansas Arts Commission is the State’s Arts Agency which currently functions under the Department of Commerce. The agency has seen a fluctuation in budgeting over the years but has been operating with approximately a $1.5M budget — of which the majority goes towards granting programs across the state.

We respectfully ask Kansas legislators that the budget remain the same or should it receive a cut, that it receives an equitable 5-10% cut as the rest of the Department of Commerce.

Find you representatives here and reach out to them today about supporting the Kansas Arts Commission.

Conference Committee Members: We encourage direct communication with the following representatives:

Key talking points:

  • The KAC connects with nearly all Kansans! In the 2024-2025 grant cycle there were 108 recipients across 42 counties. Find out where the funding went in your area here.

  • The arts in Kansas is a major player in the economy and is a $4.6B industry (ahead of utilities at $3.8B and just behind agriculture at $5.7B). The industry is 2.21% of the State’s GDP and supports 41,643 jobs. (source: Arts Action Fund)

  • Public investments in the arts deliver a high payoff and contribute to multiple policy goals. Many sectors offer a sizable economic footprint, however, only the arts sector delivers a fivefold return on investment: boosting economic productivity, improving education outcomes, facilitating good health, and preserving our cherished heritage and traditions. No other industry offers all those outcomes alongside beauty and inspiration. (source: National Assembly of State Arts Agencies (NASAA)) 


Illustration of sunflowers with "Save Sunflower Summer" text in bold, surrounded by a bright, sunny sky.

Support Funding for the Sunflower Summer Program

The Sunflower Summer Program has become a staple for so many Kansas families and provides unparalleled access to enriching educational and cultural experiences across the State. We know the program not only benefits Kansas families, but it also has allowed so many arts organizations to strengthen their impact in communities of all sizes.

The program has been funded by the State of Kansas since 2020, however 2025-2026 funding has not been allocated adequately. Learn more about how you can support the program here:

https://savesunflowersummer.org

To ensure the continuation of this impactful program, we respectfully request an additional allocation of $3 million for FY 2025 and $5 million in total funding for the Sunflower Summer’s Program in FY 2026. This investment will ensure Sunflower Summer remains a vital resource for Kansas families, offering affordable and meaningful opportunities to educate and inspire children while creating lasting memories.

Find you representatives here and reach out to them today about supporting the Sunflower Summer Program.

Key talking points:

  • The program is a major economic driver for communities. For every dollar the program funds, there is a $5 return/spend in a community. Families who use the program spend on items like lodging, food and beverages, gift shop purchases, gas, etc.

  • The program keeps Kansans in Kansas! Instead of travelling out of state over the summer, the program not only keeps families in Kansas where they are encouraged to explore the state, but it also keeps their dollars right here.

  • The program is for everyone! This means that there is no stigma in using the app and families who would have no other opportunities to access museums and cultural centers are now welcomed to so - and often times are able to learn about other resources the attractions have to offer, like scholarships or reduce rate memberships.