Professional Development

As government relations professionals, our work contributes to quality public policy, the creation of jobs, the encouragement of innovation, and meaningful dialogue between citizens, businesses, interest groups and governments. Government relations is a specialized field because the nature of government can be an intimidating labyrinth for the uninitiated.

Because of the contribution that government relations can make to public policy, GRIC endeavours to demystify lobbying activities for organizations and the general public. We have created some courses to enhance the understanding of our practice. We have an impressive faculty of experienced government relations practitioners to facilitate our seminars.

These seminars are recommended for:

  • Non profit organizations/charities
  • Educational institutions
  • Government departments and public servants

To request a seminar or speaker at one of your events, please contact the GRIC Secretariat. GRIC will offer these seminars free to GRIC members.

Government Relations 101: Proven Strategies for Successful Government Relations

This introductory session is designed to provide you with a good grasp of the basics, including the key types of lobbying, the governing legislative parameters, as well as the risks associated with poor access and communication strategies. If you are new to the area or just need a refresher, this seminar will provide you with an overview of the essential elements of lobbying.

  • Understanding the key differences in lobbying for funds versus lobbying for change
  • Identifying the key players in the lobbying process
  • Strategies on maximizing and expanding your contacts list
  • Capitalizing on tactics to exert pressure in a timely fashion, and recognizing when you should hold off

To request a seminar or speaker at one of your events, please contact the GRIC Secretariat.  GRIC will offer these seminars free to GRIC members.

Posted in Professional Development | Comments closed

Government Relations 201: Charities and Lobbying

Canadian charities are increasingly engaging in the political process, and receive approximately 2/3 of their annual revenues of $180 billion from government. The unique experiences, insights, networks, connections and credibility of charities are often sought out by policy makers. This session will provide you with an overview of crucial recent developments that both expand and restrict the ability of Canadian charities to conduct political activities and lobby.

  • Understanding the unique rules for charities:
    • How lobbyist registration affects charities
    • Restrictions from the Ontario government on affiliations with those involved in political activity
    • Guidelines from the CRA on charities and political activities
    • Public disclosure requirements
  • Guidelines for successful lobbying initiatives, including recent charity sector lobbying on Bill C-470 dealing with compensation caps and transparency
  • Identifying the top spending charities and their unique results-oriented characteristics
  • How to position charities for positive engagement in political activities?

To request a seminar or speaker at one of your events, please contact the GRIC Secretariat.  GRIC will offer these seminars free to GRIC members.

Posted in Professional Development | Comments closed

Government Relations 202: Effective Commitee Presentations for Taking Your Message to the Hill

Much of the real work of Parliament takes place in committee. But are your committee visits hitting the mark? The House of Commons and Senate standing committees make headlines, dissect legislation and target key issues. For witnesses, this is the place to make your case. Doing it right requires perfecting the message, positioning and avoiding common missteps.

This session will provide insight into making parliamentary committee presentations a potent part of your GR arsenal.

To request a seminar or speaker at one of your events, please contact the GRIC Secretariat.  GRIC will offer these seminars free to GRIC members.

Posted in Professional Development | Comments closed