When most people think of public relations, they picture media interviews, damage control, or trying to get positive press. But there’s another side of PR that works quietly and strategically behind the scenes—helping organizations talk to government leaders, shape policies, and open doors for funding. That’s called government relations.
Government relations is all about communicating with the people in government—lawmakers, staffers, agency officials—to make sure your organization’s goals and challenges are understood. Whether you’re a nonprofit applying for grants, a small business dealing with new regulations, or a hospital seeking public support, Government Relations helps get the right attention from the right people in the right way.
Why It Matters
Decisions made by the government can have a huge impact on your organization. New laws, budget cuts, or changes in regulation can affect how you grow, how you serve people, or whether you even qualify for support. Government Relations makes sure your voice is in the conversation before decisions are made—not after.
What It Looks Like
Government relations isn’t just about politics or lobbying. It’s about building relationships and trust. It might include:
- Writing messages that connect with local, state, or federal officials
- Teaming up with other organizations to get noticed
- Inviting leaders to see your work in action
- Submitting public comments on new rules
- Coaching your team for meetings with lawmakers
It’s more than just persuasion—it’s smart positioning.
One clear example is how Pfizer engaged with government during the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. The company worked with the U.S. government to secure Emergency Use Authorization, coordinated with Operation Warp Speed for distribution (while declining federal research funding), and partnered with state and local agencies for deployment. This strategic collaboration helped streamline approvals and logistics, showing the power of strong government relations in action.
Why You Need Government Relations Partner
Working with government isn’t easy. Rules vary from city to city, state to state, and federal agencies all have their own systems. That’s where 1903 PR comes in. We know how things work and how to help you navigate them. Our team brings experience from all levels of government and works alongside you to identify the best way forward. We understand the ins and outs of legislative, administrative, and regulatory processes, so we can help you navigate them with confidence and clarity.
We don’t just connect you with decision-makers—we help you make a strong, lasting impression.
Government relations aren’t just for giant corporations or political insiders. It’s for anyone trying to make a difference, unlock funding, or create change through public partnerships. And since policies can shift fast, there’s no better time to start building relationships than right now.
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