ASM Global is launching a new corporate social responsibility platform announced Thursday (Oct. 14) that’s aimed at combating climate change and helping to diversify the live entertainment industry.
The new program, dubbed ASM Global Acts, intends to elevate the entertainment giant’s commitment to protect the environment, invest in people and strengthen communities around the globe, the company says.
ASM Global was formed in 2019 as a merger between AEG Facilities and SMG, combining management for 300 venues to create the world’s largest venue management firm.
“ASM Global operates hundreds of stadiums, convention centers and arenas around the globe, which boost local economies, employ area residents and provide meaningful opportunities for the communities we call home,” said ASM Global CEO and president Ron Bension in a release. “We will immediately launch this initiative at our Pennsylvania Convention Center, Chicago’s McCormick Place, California’s Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, Ontario Convention Center, and Toyota Arena; but we plan to implement ASM Global Acts at every venue we have under our guidance as we roll it out in 2022. The ASM Global Acts Foundation and Scholarship further strengthens our philanthropic efforts and solidifies our intention to make a difference in the communities where we do business.”
The platform will protect the environment through reducing waste from guests at its venues, enhance facility efficiency through capital investments, and protect and preserve resources in and around the communities they serve. Communities impacted by ASM Global will also see an increase in philanthropic support and an enhanced focus on the health and well-being of staff, clients and guests.
ASM Global Act has also pledged to diversify its workforce, while creating an environment of inclusion. The company says it will establish annual targets that measure impact and progress to achieving the commitments. ASM Global Act’s efforts will closely align with many of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
“Whether you are a performer on our stages, a technician, hospitality team member or visitor to our venue, we all have the ability to work together and harness our collective action to make the world a better place,” Bension said. “Our ASM Global Acts initiative is inspired by this idea of action and brings to life our dedication to making a meaningful difference in our communities and beyond.”
Under the new initiative, ASM Global will launch the ASM Global Acts Foundation to support philanthropic and community-based endeavors guided by its sustainability and diversity pillars. The ASM Global Acts Scholarship will focus on serving diverse and under-resourced communities with educational and career-development opportunities.