The Sydney Opera House has launched an Expression of Interest process to select a principal corporate partner.
This is the first time the Opera House has undertaken an open process to select a principal partner.
The aim is to attract the widest possible interest from Australian and global brands and identify the organisation most able and committed to working with the Opera House to deepen and broaden its connection with the community.
Sydney Opera House CEO Louise Herron AM said: “After a successful six-year collaboration with Samsung, the Opera House is seeking a principal partner to help us achieve our vision, mission and strategy in the lead-up to our 50th anniversary in 2023 and beyond.
“As a not-for-profit organisation, the Opera House relies on leveraging public and private funding to deliver artistic and cultural experiences that match its status as a world-class performing arts centre, premier tourism destination, World Heritage-listed masterpiece and symbol of modern Australia.
“The principal partner will work with us to strengthen our connection with the community, including by sustaining the excellence and ambition of the artistic and cultural experiences we offer.”
The Opera House is looking to build on the significant contribution made by its existing suite of partners, which includes major brands such as Westpac, EnergyAustralia, Etihad, Mastercard and Airbnb.
Sydney Opera House head of partnerships Chloe Sawyer said: “Meaningful collaboration, integration and innovation are essential to building successful, long-term relationships.
“Through the advocacy and financial support of our family of partners over the past five years, we have been able to do more and reach further than ever before.
“As we look ahead to our 50th anniversary in 2023, we want to collaborate with a contemporary organisation that shares our values and can demonstrate its commitment to working with us during this transformative period in the Opera House’s history.”
The EOI will be managed through the NSW Government’s eTendering website and undertaken in line with NSW Government procurement policies. Organisations interested in participating will have until 10 May 2019 to respond.
Potential partners will be considered against a range of criteria, including brand and reputational alignment, opportunities for collaboration and integration with the Opera House’s year-round program of artistic and visitor experiences, as well as respect for the building and its heritage.
A shortlist of applicants will be invited to participate in a second stage, with the aim of appointing a new principal partner during the second half of this year.
