Montrose Business Times
Colorado became the first state in the nation Tuesday to create a business structure specifically designed for artists and creative professionals after Gov. Jared Polis signed legislation sponsored by Sen. Marc Catlin of Montrose County.
The bipartisan measure, Senate Bill 26-133, known as the Colorado Artist Company Act, establishes a new type of business entity called an artist company.
Supporters say the law recognizes the unique ownership and intellectual property challenges faced by artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, performers and other creative professionals.
The bill was signed at the SIE Film Center in Denver.
Artist companies will operate similarly to limited liability companies but include additional provisions related to artistic mission, ownership, governance and intellectual property. One of the law’s key features requires artists to maintain at least 51% ownership and voting control of the company, helping ensure creators retain control of their work while still allowing opportunities for investment and collaboration.
“This creates a business structure designed specifically for creative professionals, helping artists maintain ownership of their work while providing new opportunities to grow, collaborate and build sustainable businesses,” Catlin said in a statement.
The concept was developed by Yancey Strickler, co-founder and former CEO of Kickstarter, who has advocated for new business structures that allow creative professionals to protect artistic control while building long-term enterprises. Colorado is the first state to adopt the concept into law.
The legislation arrives as Colorado continues to expand its role in the creative economy.
The state recently secured the future home of the Sundance Film Festival beginning in 2027 and has invested heavily in arts and cultural initiatives through programs such as Colorado Creative Industries and the Creative District program.
According to data cited by Catlin’s office, arts and cultural production generates approximately $19.7 billion in economic activity annually and supports more than 121,000 jobs across Colorado. The sector accounts for roughly 3.7% of the state’s economic output.
Colorado is home to 31 certified Creative Districts, nearly 60% of which are located in rural communities. Catlin’s Senate District 5 includes four Creative Districts: Carbondale, Crested Butte, Gunnison and Paonia. Supporters say those districts help attract visitors, support local businesses and strengthen community identity throughout Western Colorado.
“Colorado’s artists are entrepreneurs,” Catlin said. “They create jobs, support local businesses, attract visitors and contribute to the identity of communities across our state.”
Catlin sponsored the legislation with Sen. Jeff Bridges, D-Greenwood Village, and Reps. Matthew Martinez, D-Monte Vista, and Rick Taggart, R-Grand Junction. The bill passed with bipartisan support during the 2026 legislative session.
“Whether it’s a filmmaker on the Western Slope, a musician in a mountain town, or a visual artist in one of Colorado’s Creative Districts, artists deserve business tools that recognize the unique nature of creative work,” Catlin said.
