As you know, one of my platforms as chair has been to spearhead DMAI getting more involved with arts groups at the national and local levels. Recently Michael and I met with Randy Cohen, VP of Local Arts Advancement for Americans for the Arts, to talk about ways we can engage our memberships to work together more.  We were very excited by the discussions, and as a result we agreed that both our organizations are going to invite chairs or executive staff to present at each others’ conferences in order to educated members about opportunities.

 I’m so excited about this because it’s been my personal experience as CEO of Team San Jose that these partnerships can really strengthen a DMO’s position within the community and their brand as well. For example, I’m very active in several arts boards in San Jose, and have worked to help create and support the development of signature events that reflect our unique community -- such as ZeroOne – where art meets technology, Cinequest Film Festival, which showcases maverick, innovative filmmakers and First Fridays gallery nights in our SoFA district (South of First Area). Helping these events develop and flourish has been critical to our DMOs ability to promote San Jose as a unique arts and events destination. It’s also strengthened our relationships with business community that supports the arts, which has been great for us as well.

I’d love to hear about successful partnerships your DMO has done with local arts groups, and how your organizations and destination have benefited.