Jonathan Berger Joins Destination Indy

Destination Indy today announced that former Newfields Vice President of Marketing & External Affairs Jonathan Berger has joined the company as President as it prepares for a major, multi-platform launch in August 2026.

Founded by Indianapolis entrepreneurs Michael Schaefer and Joey Amato, and backed by significant private investment, Destination Indy was created to elevate the region’s creative economy through coordinated digital, print, broadcast, and live experiences. The platform aims to serve as a central storytelling engine for the venues, organizations, restaurants, and artists who define Central Indiana’s cultural identity.

“As Indianapolis continues to grow as a sports and convention destination, it’s essential that our arts and cultural community have an equally powerful platform,” said Michael Schaefer, Founder and CEO. “Destination Indy was built to meet that moment. Jonathan brings the leadership and marketing expertise to help scale this vision and ensure our creative economy is seen, supported, and celebrated.”

According to the most recent Indy Arts Council strategic plan, 46% of Indianapolis residents state ‘awareness’ is the top barrier to engaging in arts events.

As President, Berger will oversee day-to-day operations and execution of the company’s upcoming initiatives that will launch in August, including:

• The launch of Destination Indy’s enhanced multimedia website

• A print publication distributed to 150,000 households

• A weekly television show in partnership with WISH-TV/WNDY

• First annual Illuminate Indy, an Arts, Entertainment & Dining Showcase at the Indiana State Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 19, 2026

Berger brings a strong record of expanding audiences and strengthening cultural brands across the region. During his time at Newfields, he helped elevate institutional visibility and build cross-sector partnerships that increased engagement and regional impact.

“I’ve spent my career inviting people to engage with the experiences that shape our community,” Berger said. “Destination Indy represents an opportunity to amplify that work at scale — spotlighting the people and places that make Indianapolis vibrant and ensuring arts and culture are central to our city’s story.”

With substantial private investment and multiple platforms launching in rapid succession, Destination Indy represents one of the most ambitious coordinated media efforts focused exclusively on Central Indiana’s creative ecosystem.

Berger’s appointment signals the company’s commitment to experienced leadership as it accelerates toward launch and positions arts and culture as essential drivers of community identity, tourism, and economic vitality.