The system behind Minnesota's arts

Who We Are

A statewide network

FRACMN is a partnership of the eleven Regional Arts Councils (RACs) that together serve all 87 Minnesota counties and tribal nations. Each RAC brings a dedicated representative to the table, someone who understands their region’s unique needs and opportunities. Together, these voices create FRACMN.

No other state has a decentralized network like Minnesota. That’s something to celebrate, and something we have a responsibility to protect.

Why We Exist

guiding the Future of Minnesota’s Arts

Every Regional Arts Council exists to support its unique communities, but navigating challenges and accessing resources can be difficult without a strong network behind them. FRACMN brings RACs together through peer connections, shared knowledge, and collective advocacy, ensuring their voices are heard.

What We Do

leadership, support
and advocacy

Much of FRACMN’s work happens behind the scenes, but it plays a critical role in helping RACs support their communities. We provide connections, resources and a collective voice to help the arts thrive. That includes:

  • Planning and preparation of joint applications to private or public funders.

  • Assisting individual regional arts council staff in understanding general regional arts council policies and activities, and in solving particular problems relating to them.

  • Planning regional arts participation in activities to inform the state legislature about the arts in Minnesota. Development of the biennial budget request to the state legislature for regional arts development.

  • Conducting joint activities to develop the skills of regional arts council staff, councils, and committees.

  • Developing and carrying out activities jointly with the Minnesota State Arts Board and/or Minnesota Citizens for the Arts

  • Developing and carrying out joint activities designed to promote regional arts development across the state, such as conferences for local arts volunteers.

who we
work with

Through the leadership of FRACMN and in partnership with the Minnesota State Arts Board, Minnesota Citizens for the Arts, The McKnight Foundation and others:

  • All Minnesotans will have access to the arts

  • All Minnesotans will value art as an essential part of community

  • All Minnesotans will see themselves reflected in the arts and arts experiences

  • All Minnesotans will experience belonging in the arts

  • The arts will remain a vibrant sector of the Minnesota economy