Governors Ball wanted to:
Build its reputation as New York City’s premier music festival, as a responsible corporate citizen, and as a good partner to the local community.
Challenges Governors Ball faced
Increasing visibility for the Governors Ball and gaining the support of local elected officials and the surrounding community of East Harlem where the festival took place annually.
Capalino Assisted with
- Strategic Advising to Build Community & Political Engagement
- Government Affairs & Community Relations
- Nonprofit Partnership Development
- Social Impact/Corporate Social Responsibility
- Sustainability
- Advocacy & PR Strategy
- Fundraising Assistance
- Business & Organization Strategy
What we got done
With our in-depth knowledge of the surrounding neighborhoods and strong working relationship with government and community leaders, Capalino successfully positioned Governors Ball as NYC's leading socially-conscious music festival. We launched a variety of socially responsible, community-oriented activities, and public-private partnerships to increase the festival’s positive impact on local NYC communities, setting a standard for music festivals and concerts everywhere. We introduced a new community initiative as part of Gov Ball Gives Back, building partnerships with local soup kitchens, pantry programs and food banks and incentivizing New Yorkers to volunteer to help reduce hunger and improve the lives of New Yorkers in need. Through this program, in one year alone, Governors Ball gave out 103 free tickets to volunteers who served for more than 1200 hours total. Through funds raised by the event, the Governors Ball donated $50,000 annually to the NY Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Funds, as well as contributing $10-15,000 to the city through the Mayors’ Fund. The Governors Ball has also led the way in sustainability, festival waste management and recycling. In addition, Capalino worked with Governors Ball to develop numerous workforce development initiatives as well as supporting local economic activity by inviting 50 local vendors to participate in the festival by selling their products. In one year alone, the Governors Ball created 316 jobs and generated almost $40 million in economic benefits for New York City. The festival also created $20 million in earned wages.
