Ascent Internet Marketing is a results-driven online marketing agency with a focus on PPC and creative design. We help our clients improve their online visibility and increase sales. Founder of ASCENT Internet Marketing, and we are here to be your guide in connecting you with more customers. For nearly a decade, we've worked with businesses to develop websites and implement marketing… Read More
Top Public Affairs Firms
The public affairs industry globally grew from USD 63.8 billion in 2018 to USD 93.1 billion in 2022, driven by rising organizational focus on media, lobbying, and political communications (Source: Wikipedia).
Public Affairs Firms play a crucial role in shaping public perception, influencing policy, and managing stakeholder relationships for businesses, nonprofits, and government organizations. Our curated list of Top Public Affairs Firms includes industry leaders specializing in government relations, crisis management, advocacy campaigns, and strategic communications. These firms help clients navigate complex regulatory landscapes, build public trust, and effectively engage with policymakers and the media. Whether you’re looking to enhance your corporate reputation, drive legislative change, or manage public relations, explore our top-rated firms based on expertise, client reviews, and proven success.
List of the Best Public Affairs Agencies | Top Public Affairs Firms in the World
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Employees: 2 to 10 -
Min. Project amount: $25000 -
Country: U.S.A
Addicott Web
5 (2)
Addicott Web is a Raleigh, North Carolina web design and marketing firm. We work primarily with small businesses, organizations, educational institutions, and synagogues, offering affordable website design and custom web marketing services to meet their communication needs. We take pride in the work we do with each client. Our goal is to make sure that the website delivered to them… Read More
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Employees: 0 to 1
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
Lantera Labs
5 (1)
We believe in democratized access to technology through boutique consulting services and accessible tech courses. At Lantera Labs, we believe in democratized access to tech skills through affordable data science, engineering and marketing consulting. Our inclusive bootcamps empower the next generation of leaders, changing the demographics of who has a seat at the table We work as both consultants and… Read More
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Employees: 2 to 10
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
Indispensable Marketing
4.8 (1)
Indispensable Marketing is a small business marketing consulting firm that increases your visibility and makes your phone ring by installing a process approach to marketing! In 2012 we noticed the most frustrating part of marketing for service-based small businesses is that there was no logical way to understand, buy, and implement marketing services. And our interactions with the market revealed… Read More
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Employees: 2 to 10
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
BNG Design
0 (0)
BNG Team is a financial technology company. Long story short, we help companies get paid faster, cheaper, and more reliably. Some of our products include a SaaS billing tool and a secure payment processing solution. We’re passionate about hiring and developing hard-working people who align with our core values—integrity, excellence, ambition, creativity, and happiness & gratitude. We value our employees… Read More
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Employees: 51 to 200
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
Ad Monkeys
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Ad Monkeys is a full-service advertising agency specializing in marketing, graphic design, web development, media buying, logo creation, and creative writing. Our award-winning expertise creates successful and innovative ideas for our clients. We combine strategic marketing and media placement to generate memorable results. Read More
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Employees: 2 to 10
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
Cultivating Creative
0 (0)
Hi! I'm Angela Eldridge, and I'm a graphic designer with a green thumb. Born, raised, and trained in the heartland, I have a sense great of design and a passion to provide affordable design services to small businesses and change-makers doing good work in their communities. I earned a B.A. in Graphic Design, and have been working as a professional designer… Read More
I use graphic design to amplify marginalized voices.
I believe that God designed me to hear, see and respond to injustice and oppression. I actively partner with nonprofit organizations that affirm that black and brown lives, voices, and communities matter.
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
Stray Media Group
0 (0)
Stray Media Group goes about working with our clients a little differently. We’re a curious bunch, and we bring a depth of experience and creative power to promote brands across a wide range of platforms. We specialize in providing cost-effective marketing solutions because we don’t think this needs to be an expensive or stuffy process. We’re a passionate group with… Read More
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Employees: 2 to 10
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
BeBizzy
0 (0)
I started BeBizzy Consulting in 2008 as a part-time web design company. Now full-time, BeBizzy services include website hosting (over 75 websites currently), development on the WordPress platform, podcast production, search engine optimization (SEO), e-commerce, and technical advising. I also am an advocate for social media use and marketing, acquiring over 165k Twitter followers (@bebizzy), and managing seven Twitter accounts,… Read More
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
Oliver Russell
0 (0)
We are a social impact branding agency. Since 1991, we have operated at the confluence of cause, commerce, and community, providing brand design, integrated campaigns, and cause marketing for purpose-driven companies and organizations—from the Fortune 50 to social entrepreneurs. We believe a brand’s purpose—and the story that flows from it—constitute its best bet for lasting differentiation and growth. Helping organizations… Read More
Benefit Director’s Statement
As an Idaho Public Benefit Corporation, the Oliver Group, Inc. (dba Oliver Russell & Associates, LLC) acted in accordance with its general public benefit purpose and any specific public benefit purpose in all material respects during the period covered by the report.
The directors and officers have complied with sections 30-2007 and 30-2009, Idaho Code, respectively. The benefit corporation did not dispense with or restrict the discretion or powers of the board of directors.
Founder and President Russ Stoddard serves as benefit director and officer of the company and exercises the powers, duties, and rights, and has the immunities of the board of directors and the benefit director.
There is no connection between our benefit corporation director and the organization that established the third-party standard (B Lab) or its directors, officers, or any holder of 5 percent or more of the governmental interests in the organization that might materially affect the credibility of the use of the third-party standard.
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Employees: 11 to 50
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Min. Project amount: $25000
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Country: U.S.A
1.What Should I Look for When Choosing a Public Affairs Firm?
Selecting the right public affairs firm is crucial for businesses, nonprofits, and organizations looking to navigate complex regulatory landscapes, influence policy decisions, and enhance public perception. Here are key factors to consider:
1. Expertise in Government Relations, Policy Advocacy, and Corporate Affairs
A top-tier public affairs firm should have extensive experience in lobbying, regulatory compliance, and policy advocacy. Their ability to navigate government structures, understand legislative processes, and influence decision-making is essential for achieving your goals.
2. Strong Connections with Key Stakeholders and Policymakers
Public affairs firms must have well-established relationships with legislators, government agencies, and policymakers. Their ability to engage with influential figures ensures your organization’s message reaches the right audience, whether for policy reform, business regulations, or crisis management.
3. Media and Public Relations Expertise
Public perception plays a significant role in policy success. The firm should have strong ties with journalists, media outlets, and opinion leaders to shape public discourse, build credibility, and generate positive press coverage.
4. Industry-Specific Knowledge and Track Record
Look for a firm that understands the regulatory and political challenges of your industry. Whether in healthcare, energy, technology, finance, or education, the firm should have proven success in handling public affairs strategies tailored to your sector.
5. Strategic Communication and Crisis Management Capabilities
A good public affairs firm should be able to craft compelling messaging for stakeholders, handle crisis situations, and provide strategic advice on sensitive issues. Their ability to anticipate public and government reactions can help mitigate risks before they escalate.
6. Measurable Success and Case Studies
Review their past work, case studies, and client testimonials. A reputable firm should provide examples of successful policy influence, public engagement campaigns, or crisis resolutions to demonstrate their effectiveness.
7. Transparency in Pricing and Services
Understand their pricing structure—whether it’s a retainer model, project-based, or hourly consulting. Ensure there are no hidden costs and that the firm provides clear deliverables aligned with your budget and expectations.
By evaluating these factors, you can choose a public affairs firm that aligns with your objectives, enhances your influence, and strengthens your public engagement strategy.
2.What Services Do Public Affairs Firms Offer?
Public affairs firms provide a range of services to help businesses, organizations, and individuals navigate government relations, influence public policy, and manage their public image. Their expertise spans multiple areas, including lobbying, crisis communication, and stakeholder engagement. Here’s a closer look at their key services:
1. Lobbying and Government Relations
Public affairs firms work directly with legislators, government agencies, and policymakers to advocate for favorable policies and regulations. They help clients shape public policy, draft legislative proposals, and engage with decision-makers at local, state, and national levels.
2. Regulatory Strategy and Compliance
Navigating regulatory frameworks can be complex. Public affairs firms assist businesses in understanding new regulations, ensuring compliance, and influencing regulatory developments to protect their interests.
3. Crisis Communication and Reputation Management
During a crisis, whether it’s a corporate scandal, legal issue, or public backlash, public affairs firms provide strategic guidance to manage communication, mitigate damage, and rebuild trust with stakeholders, customers, and the media.
4. Public Policy Analysis and Research
These firms conduct in-depth research on legislative and regulatory trends, providing clients with insights into how policy changes may impact their industry. This allows businesses to anticipate challenges and develop proactive strategies.
5. Grassroots Advocacy and Community Engagement
Public affairs firms design and manage advocacy campaigns to mobilize public support for policy initiatives. This includes organizing petitions, social media advocacy, community outreach programs, and coalition-building efforts.
6. Stakeholder and Media Relations
Maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders—including industry leaders, media professionals, and government officials—is critical. Public affairs firms help clients craft strategic messaging and build meaningful connections through targeted outreach and media engagement.
7. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Public Engagement
To enhance brand reputation and align with public interests, many firms offer CSR strategy development. They help organizations implement sustainable initiatives, charitable programs, and corporate philanthropy efforts to strengthen their public image.
8. Election and Political Campaign Support
For businesses and organizations looking to influence elections, public affairs firms provide strategic support in political campaigning, issue-based advocacy, and voter education efforts.
By leveraging these services, public affairs firms help clients shape public perception, engage with key decision-makers, and achieve their policy and business objectives.
3.How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Public Affairs Firm?
The cost of hiring a public affairs firm depends on factors such as the scope of services, the firm’s reputation, and the complexity of the campaign. Here’s a breakdown of how public affairs firms typically charge for their services and what businesses can expect to budget.
1. Pricing Models: How Public Affairs Firms Charge
Monthly Retainer: Many firms charge a fixed monthly fee for ongoing public affairs support, covering services such as lobbying, government relations, and media outreach. Retainers typically range from $5,000 to $25,000+ per month depending on the firm’s expertise and the client’s needs.
Project-Based Fees: For specific campaigns or short-term projects—such as a regulatory policy initiative or crisis management—firms may charge a one-time project fee ranging from $10,000 to $100,000+, depending on the campaign’s complexity.
Hourly Consulting Rates: Some firms offer consulting on an hourly basis, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $600+ per hour depending on the firm’s experience and specialization.
2. Typical Budget Range for Different Clients
Small Businesses & Startups:
Basic public affairs consulting or advocacy campaign support: $5,000 – $15,000 per month
Short-term policy research or stakeholder engagement: $10,000 – $50,000 per project
Corporations & Large Enterprises:
Full-service public affairs strategy with government relations and media engagement: $20,000 – $50,000+ per month
Nationwide policy advocacy or crisis communication strategy: $100,000 – $500,000+ annually
Nonprofits & Advocacy Groups:
Limited grassroots lobbying or community outreach campaigns: $5,000 – $20,000 per project
Large-scale public policy or social impact campaigns: $50,000 – $250,000 annually
3. Additional Costs to Consider
Lobbying Registration Fees: If direct lobbying is involved, firms may need to register with government agencies, which can incur additional costs.
Media and PR Expenses: If media relations, press releases, or paid advertising are part of the strategy, expect extra costs for media placements and production.
Event and Stakeholder Meetings: Hosting advocacy events, policy briefings, or networking meetings may involve venue, travel, and catering costs.
Hiring a public affairs firm is a strategic investment that can significantly impact an organization’s influence, reputation, and policy outcomes. Businesses should evaluate their goals and budget before selecting a firm that aligns with their needs.
4.How Long Does It Take to See Results from a Public Affairs Strategy?
The timeline for achieving results from a public affairs strategy depends on the complexity of the issue, the level of stakeholder engagement, and the overall strategy employed. Public affairs is a long-term effort that requires consistent engagement, but some short-term wins can also be achieved depending on the campaign’s goals.
1. Expected Timeline for Key Outcomes
Policy Influence & Legislative Changes:
Influencing policy decisions or securing legislative changes can take several months to years, depending on government cycles, political climate, and stakeholder lobbying efforts.
Smaller policy amendments or regulatory adjustments may take 6–12 months, while large-scale reforms may require multiple years of advocacy.
Improved Stakeholder Relations:
Building strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and industry influencers, is an ongoing process.
Initial engagement and trust-building may take 3–6 months, while long-term partnerships and collaborations could take 1–2 years to develop fully.
Media Coverage & Public Awareness:
Media coverage for public affairs initiatives, such as press releases, interviews, and opinion pieces, can begin within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the media strategy and newsworthiness of the issue.
Gaining widespread public attention and shaping public opinion on a policy matter may take several months to a year.
2. Factors That Affect Public Affairs Success & Timeline
Regulatory & Political Landscape: The complexity of government processes, upcoming elections, and political opposition can impact the speed of policy influence.
Stakeholder Engagement: The number and influence of stakeholders involved (e.g., policymakers, media, advocacy groups) can determine how quickly a campaign gains traction.
Media & Public Perception: Public affairs campaigns that align with trending issues or crises tend to gain media attention faster.
Resources & Strategy Execution: The budget, expertise, and execution speed of the public affairs firm or in-house team play a critical role in achieving results.
Public affairs campaigns require persistence and adaptability. While short-term wins like media coverage and stakeholder meetings can be achieved quickly, policy changes and long-term influence take sustained effort over months or even years.
