Cultural Access Tax
How Cultural Access Started
In 2015, the Washington State Legislature passed laws giving local governments the ability to expand access to arts, culture, science, and heritage in their communities. With strong support from Inspire Washington, these laws officially created Cultural Access Washington (RCW 36.160).
Cities and counties can adopt a 0.1% sales tax (or equivalent property tax) to fund nonprofit cultural programs. Programs can be approved by public vote or council action and are authorized for seven years.
Goals of Cultural Access Programs
The state outlined five main goals:
- Broaden access to cultural experiences
- Provide educational opportunities for K–12 students
- Support nonprofit sustainability
- Stimulate local economies
- Advance cultural equity and post-pandemic recovery
Inspire Vancouver
Inspire Vancouver is the City of Vancouver’s Cultural Access Program. On Dec. 2, 2024, City Council unanimously approved Ordinance M-4481, officially establishing Inspire Vancouver and adopting a 0.1% sales tax to fund it.
- Tax cost: ~1 penny per $10 spent, or $30 per year for the average household
- Collection started: May 2025
- Expected annual revenue: up to $7 million for seven years (renewal possible in 2031)
All money must be used for eligible Inspire Vancouver funding categories. Funds not distributed in a given year stay in the program for future use.
How the Funds Are Used
- 10% → Administrative costs (staff, technology, operations) to ensure the program runs effectively and fairly
- 90% → Distributed directly to eligible organizations through five grant categories