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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

Synczer

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BUSINESS EXCELLENCE It is critical to select the greatest technology for your company's growth. Hiring an innovative IT services provider is the most straightforward approach to ensure that you are maximizing technology, increasing revenue, and staying ahead of the competition. PROGRESS To aid you in your role as a partner, we've collated your demands and awards to determine which can… Read More
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    Employees: 2 to 10
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: USA
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    Employees: 2 to 10
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: USA

Decurtis

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By focusing on these three pillars, DeCurtis can assist clients in increasing safety and security, driving new revenue streams and enhancing the overall guest experience. The DeCurtis Experience Platform™ powers all of our solutions and turns any indoor space into a location-aware environment aimed at increasing health and safety while efficiently transforming the guest experience. HEALTH, SAFETY & SECURITY DeCurtis… Read More
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    Employees: 51 to 200
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: USA
The most important thing one needs to know about ATI Creative Consulting (formerly ATI Graphics, Inc.) and CEO, Larry Bloom, is that our success is deeply rooted in the successes we have made for our clients. While web searches and traditional advertising direct business to our virtual doors, it is a steady stream of word-of-mouth referrals that make up the… Read More
“ATI Graphics, Inc. has been so terrific to work with that I have been non-stop recommending them at every opportunity. Not only are they creative and expert at what they do, but they deliver a great product on time—or early. ATI Graphics, Inc. is very respectful of our company’s budget—and always directs us toward the most cost-effective and efficient way of doing things. I can not more highly recommend ATI Graphics, Inc.” Julie Yusim, (Former) Director of Marketing, Duxler Complete Auto Care
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    Employees: 2 to 10
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: U.S.A
Stephen Starr started Stephen B. Starr Design, Inc. in January 1991 after thirteen years of employment with design groups in Chicago. Stephen developed clients in the areas of healthcare, professional associations, banking, closely-held businesses, and nonprofit organizations. In 1995, Stephen became enamored with the opportunities to communicate via the internet and has since been an enthusiastic advocate of digital media… 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

Lullabot

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Lullabot was founded in 2006 by Matt Westgate and Jeff Robbins with the initial goal of helping great organizations do big projects with Drupal. More than a decade later, we've accomplished that and so much more. Below is the fuller story of our history. Jeff Robbins and Matt Westgate met during the early stages of Drupal in 2005. Matt was a Drupal core developer who wrote and… Read More
As always, I am amazed by the quality and qualities of humans that constitute Lullabot. Dan Kessler Director of Technology, National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM)
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    Employees: 51 to 200
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: U.S.A
Founded in May 2018, Full Cortex - is an agile growth marketing agency focused on helping companies grow. While working for numerous Boston-based B2B startups, such as award-winning and Shark Tank appeared Pavlok. We experienced the challenges of working with external teams and consultants. Additionally, we had difficulty finding a digital marketing agency that understood the specific problems that growing tech startups and B2B SaaS… Read More
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    Employees: 11 to 50
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: U.S.A
At Full of Grace Marketing, we're on a mission to make the world more positive, purposeful, and full of grace through the use of modern technology and digital marketing. Positive. Purposeful. Full of Grace In 2013, Sarah Douglas took a leap of faith from her corporate job and founded Full of Grace Marketing. She began by helping family members 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
We are the proverbial one-stop shop for all things web-related. Originally trained as hand-coders — some of us in the days of telnet (the precursor to the internet as we know it), we pride ourselves on our NON-reliance on WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get). If you can dream it, we can build it! 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
We’re teachers, mentors, and seen‑it‑all‑beforers. Starting with your existing tools and practices, we make incremental improvements as you’re ready for them so that our process changes stick. Whatever issues you’re having with your software or your teams—we’ve likely seen them before, and we know how to solve them. Test Double agents are empathetic teachers and mentors, and we can’t wait to work with your team.… Read More
Test Double delivered a performance that in one case doubled our throughput . . . Steve continues to see around corners— identifying gaps in our architecture, proposing and implementing new approaches. I couldn’t imagine this project succeeding without his technical leadership. DAN CARROLL, CLEVER
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    Employees: 51 to 200
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    Min. Project amount: $25000
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    Country: USA

** Buyer's Guide **

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.

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