Regional Arts Organizations (USRAOs) was encouraged in 1973 by the NEA House reauthorizing committee, which stated its belief that: The legislation creating RAOs was introduced by Public Law 93-133.
Arts Midwest focuses its efforts on three areas: supporting, informing, and celebrating Midwestern Creativity.
Arts Midwest invests time, funds, and resources in organizations that advance creativity.
Its work includes grantmaking, community artist residencies, and bringing people together to learn from one another.
Current initiatives include its Ideas Hub, a collection of articles and tools that explore best practices in artistic programming; communications; leadership and culture; diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; fundraising; strategy; and community engagement.