Not-for-profit organizations are at the forefront of addressing some of the biggest issues facing our communities. You know the challenges, and often, you have great ideas for what the solutions could look like. But crossing over into actively advocating for those changes can feel difficult.
Many organizations believe the best contribution they can make is through well-researched positions and comprehensive reports, hoping that policymakers will review these insights and act. On its surface, this sounds like it makes a lot of sense. Experts share their expertise, policymakers review it, and ideally, use it to inform policy. Logical, reasonable, and likely to result in excellent outcomes. And yet, it often doesn’t play out that way.
Why does advocacy matter?
First of all, it works. Studies consistently show that organized advocacy efforts significantly influence policy outcomes. From shaping climate laws to advancing social equity, advocacy provides a voice where it matters most. For instance, a 2022 study examining a global dataset on the adoption of climate laws found that the mobilization of climate policy supporters positively influenced national climate policies.
Second, advocacy counters opposition. In fields where powerful interests often push back, advocacy ensures balanced dialogue and prevents critical issues from being sidelined. Opponents of progressive policies are already lobbying extensively. Without advocacy, their voices can dominate the conversation, weakening the efforts of those pushing for positive change.
Third, advocacy is essential because good ideas alone don’t guarantee action. Without effective advocacy, even the best-researched policies can sit on a shelf. Politicians face numerous demands and priorities, and advocacy helps your issue to rise to the top of their agenda. It’s not enough to present a well-researched report; you need to mobilize support and create a sense of urgency around your cause.
There are many good reasons why advocacy matters; and we can help you figure out how best to go about it. We can work with you to develop strategic advocacy plans built from the insights of the work you’re already doing. We can help you identify funding opportunities, engage with communities, and evaluate the impact of your efforts. If you’re ready to talk, book a free 30 minute consultation with us today!