George Fontas
CEO and Founder
As Founder of Fontas Advisors, George has earned a reputation as an innovative leader and trusted strategist, advising clients across the corporate, real estate, technology, and nonprofit sectors as they navigate the complexity of New York City and State. Highly skilled in both the politics and policies needed to drive ambitious outcomes, he is among the region’s most respected government affairs advisors, having been named multiple times by City & State newspaper as one of New York’s most influential civic leaders.
George founded Fontas Advisors with a vision to build a firm that offers superior government affairs services and maintains a boutique culture, enabling a highly attentive approach and customized solutions for every engagement. With the ability to work seamlessly across jurisdictions in New York and New Jersey and diverse capabilities curated for today’s rapidly evolving public affairs environment, Fontas Advisors builds trusted, long-term partnerships with its clients.
With 18 years in government affairs, George brings his diverse experience, political relationships, and legislative savvy to bear for every client. He has negotiated ambitious public policy initiatives and has represented tech firms such as Dell, Intel, and Google assisting them and others navigating regulatory hurdles and lay the groundwork for future growth. George has delivered success for more than 40 complex land use projects, including transformational developments and major rezonings throughout New York City. George has lead dozens of candidates and independent expenditures to success in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania at all levels including on City, State and National elections.
Prior to founding Fontas Advisors, George was Executive Vice President at Capalino & Company where, for eleven years, he led successful advocacy programs focused on political and legislative affairs, land use, and economic development. He began his career in New York City government, serving as Legislative and Communications Director to the former Chairman of the New York City Council Finance Committee. A veteran of dozens of political campaigns at the municipal, state, and federal level, George has been tremendously successful guiding political candidates to victory on Election Day.
George has been featured in City & State NY Magazine’s: “NYC’s 100 Most Powerful People 2024”; “NYC’s Top 50 Lobbyists” 2020-2024; “Manhattan Power 100” 2019-2024; “Manhattan: 25 People to Know” 2017; “CSR Responsible 100” 2017; “Brooklyn Borough 50” 2016; “40 Under 40” 2013. As well as Schneps Media Leaders of Labor: 2022. NIA Community Services Network Man of the Year 2014. He serves as the Chairman of the Board of the nonprofit organization, Friends of Plus Pool.
George holds a B.A. in Government from Manhattan College and an M.A. in Government from St. John’s University. He is a graduate of CORO Leadership NY and is a frequent guest lecturer and speaker on the intersection of business and government. George is a native New Yorker born and raised in Brooklyn, NY.