BUSINESS, SPONSORSHIP AND POINT FORTIN CARNIVAL

There is one thing I always say. Businesses are not in operation to give charity or to assist with culture. Businesses are in operation to make profit and may contribute mostly where there is an opportunity to acquire returns through profits of publicity which will eventually lead to increased revenue.

If by the growth of carnival, increased commercial activity is expected for a particular business, then that business owner is likely to contribute because he expects increased revenue, however, he may not contribute more than a determined percentage of what happens to be his estimated profit. It will be foolish of any business owner to do otherwise.

We must also remember that businesses are targeted throughout the year, by churches, schools, community and sporting groups etc. While carnival is a much bigger activity, some business benefit more from donating to churches, sports groups etc. because the appreciation feedback is closer. Beneficiaries and members of these organizations most times support the businesses which supported their charity.

However, there are entities like contractors and corporations, who are not directly tied to the community but are linked via local and central government. These entities are in a much better position to contribute as a means of their Corporate Social Responsibility (For Culture). The problem here is that many times “kickbacks” are directed towards diverse interests and what remain happens to me minimal.  In north Trinidad companies like Junior Sammy (JUSAMCO) and Paramount Transport are very much involved in carnival celebrations.  I am aware that ANSAD/S&D Contractors has made similar contributions in Point Fortin.

We must also be mindful of the population catchment which our local businesses benefit from is much less than other developed communities like San Fernando, Chaguanas, Princess Town, Port of Spain or even Arima.

The question will be asked, “How is Cedros Carnival so successful?” 
We need to understand what generates the most revenue during carnival celebrations, and the answer undoubtedly is the sale of alcohol. Now, let’s ask ourselves, what type of businesses dominate the strip where carnival celebration are held in Cedros?
Let’s think back years ago when carnival was a big celebration in Point Fortin. For those who remember, what type of business was most popular on the Point Fortin Main Road where the bands paraded? Immediately, similarities between Point Fortin and Cedros comes to mind.  Bars dominated both areas. 
In Point Fortin, big sound system were outfitted throughout the main street by bar owners, this provided the much needed vibes from carnival Friday through Midnight Carnival Tuesday.

Maybe we have been knocking at the wrong doors many times over. Though we believe we may have done our best, it just may not have been channeled in the needed direction.  It’s like one country using numerous resources to drill for oil and gets little or nothing, while their neighbor uses less than half of the said resources and finds quadruple the amount of oil.  It happens.

It just might be necessary to re-strategize and when approaching any sponsor, the approach must include, what will the sponsor receive in return? Good name, goodwill and blessings cannot be cashed at RBC, RBL or Scotia. When we adopt that mindset, then our planning may take a completely different course including structure of the events, location and even types of events.

2020 may just provide the opportunity for the “Perfect Carnival Vision” in Point Fortin.