Mastering Government Relations: 10 Tips for Social Purpose Organizations
10 Things Social Purpose Organizations Need to Know About Government Relations
Navigating government relations can seem daunting for nonprofits, but it’s an essential skill for organizations looking to amplify their impact and secure sustainable support. Building strong partnerships with government involves more than just applying for grants—it’s about understanding the political landscape, engaging with decision-makers, and aligning your mission with public priorities. Whether you’re new to government relations or looking to refine your strategy, having the right tools and insights can open doors to transformative opportunities.
During the session hosted by The Good Growth Company, Jesse Clarke shared her expert advice on navigating the world of government relations. With over 20 years of experience in government and nonprofits, she provided practical insights to help nonprofits build strong partnerships with government.
Below is a recap of the 10 essential tips followed by key questions and answers from the session.
Do Your Homework: Understand how government works at federal, provincial, and municipal levels. Identify the right contacts and research their priorities using tools like mandate letters, budget documents, and directories.
Leverage Existing Resources: Repurpose existing materials, like fundraising reports or program updates, for government engagement. Share annual reports and newsletters to strengthen relationships with government partners.
All Politics is Local: Start with your local representatives. Build relationships with MPs, MPPs, or city councillors, and leverage the networks of board members and volunteers to engage across regions.
Build Allies Among Civil Servants: Engage civil servants early and often. They are key to navigating transitions and can provide valuable guidance on government priorities and processes.
Avoid Guessing Games: Be clear about your goals and how your work aligns with government priorities. Clearly articulate your asks in meetings and proposals to avoid confusion or wasted opportunities.
Showcase Your Value: Nonprofits bring unique community insights and connections. Use your public platform to amplify shared priorities and demonstrate the tangible impact of government partnerships.
Plan, But Stay Agile: Create a clear government relations plan with specific goals, but remain flexible. Political landscapes can shift, so adaptability is key.
Strength in Numbers: Partner with other organizations for joint proposals and advocacy campaigns. Coordinated efforts amplify your voice and are more likely to secure government support.
Be Selective: Evaluate funding opportunities carefully. Ensure they align with your mission, and consider your capacity to deliver. Partnering with other organizations can increase your chances of success.
Know the Rules: Stay compliant with CRA guidelines and avoid partisan activities. Ensure advocacy efforts align with your mission and give equal consideration to all political parties when relevant.
A few considerations for effective government engagement
Understand jurisdictions and responsibilities of different levels of government (federal, provincial, municipal).
Research which specific departments and individuals are responsible for issues relevant to your organization.
Utilize transparency tools like online directories, mandate letters, and budget documents to gather information.
Align your organization's priorities with government priorities before engaging.
Demonstrate that you have done research by connecting your work to their policy frameworks and priorities.
Repurpose materials created for fundraising or other purposes for government audiences.
Invite government contacts to events, webinars, and program visits.
Share annual reports, newsletters, and other updates with government partners.
Leverage your connection to communities as a valuable resource for government.
Recognize that you have unique knowledge and perspectives to offer beyond just seeking funding.
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Your Questions, Answered
Q: How do you engage with local governments regarding funding?
Local governments often deliver programs through community partners, making them a great entry point for nonprofits. Start by engaging your local representative and attend budget consultations or committee meetings on relevant topics. Building a relationship with the chair of key committees can be particularly impactful.
Q: What if your funding request is turned down?
Always ask for detailed feedback to understand why your application was not successful. Use this as an opportunity to build a dialogue and seek advice on alternative funding opportunities or future application improvements.
Q: How can small nonprofits stand out to secure funding?
Focus on your unique value, such as innovative program delivery or deep community connections. Start with small grants or partnerships with established organizations that already have a track record with government funding.
Q: What’s the difference between advocacy and lobbying?
Advocacy involves raising awareness, influencing policy, and engaging the public, while lobbying specifically involves meetings with senior officials to request funding or policy changes. Lobbying often requires registration and regular reporting, depending on the jurisdiction.
Q: Should you engage opposition representatives?
Yes. While opposition representatives may not hold power, they are still influential in policy discussions and can help you navigate government systems. Maintaining relationships across political parties ensures long-term benefits.
Q: How can you encourage nonpartisan support for new policies?
Focus on storytelling to highlight the human impact of your work. Personal stories and community perspectives can resonate across political lines and build empathy, which often leads to broader support.
Q: Who should nonprofits talk to: elected officials or public servants?
Both are important. Civil servants are consistent and handle the technical and operational details, making them critical long-term allies. Elected officials, however, have the influence to unblock bureaucratic challenges and accelerate decisions. Building relationships with both ensures a cohesive strategy.
Q: How do you build relationships with government staff?
Attend events where government officials are present, share updates about your work, and invite them to visit your programs. Show them the real-world impact of their policies by connecting them with the communities you serve.
Let’s grow, together.
The Good Growth Company is focused on helping social purpose organizations scale their impact. We’re an upskilling company for non-profit organizations and purpose-driven businesses seeking to invest in their people to help scale their mission. Connect with us to learn more.
