Advancing Advocacy: Setting Effective Advocacy Goals
Federal advocacy is not about raising every issue that matters to you, it’s about identifying priorities and framing your local experience as evidence for national action. Additionally, aligning with NABSA’s broader strategy supports shared micromobility as a whole.
Before reaching out to any federal (or state, provincial or local) office, work through these fundamental questions:
- What specific federal policy or funding change are you supporting or opposing?
Get granular. Are you advocating for a bill? A specific program change? New funding eligibility? The more specific you can be, the easier it becomes to communicate your ask.
- How does this connect to your local community?
Federal policymakers respond to constituent voices and real-world stories. When you can say, “Our riders took one million trips last year, but limited federal funding prevents us from expanding into underserved neighborhoods,” you transform abstract policy into tangible local impact.
- Which congressional offices or committees matter most?
Not all federal offices have equal influence. Identify the committees with jurisdiction over your policy area and your local representatives who can champion your cause.
- What evidence supports your goals?
Compile your strongest data: usage statistics, environmental impact numbers, equity metrics, and economic benefits. You can also pair your data with compelling human stories.
- What other voices might strengthen your argument?
Coalition building amplifies your message. Once you’ve identified your priorities, look to collaborate with other organizations whose goals align with yours. This could be environmental groups, public health advocates, business leaders, or anyone who might be interested in advocating alongside you.
- What’s your timeline?
Time your outreach to coincide with key decision points: reauthorization deadlines, appropriations cycles, committee hearings, or bill markups.
Remember that advocacy isn’t a one-time activity. Federal policy moves slowly, and your goals may need to evolve. Maintain regular contact with offices, share updates about your work, and engage even when you’re not asking for something specific. This builds the trust that makes future advocacy more effective.
If you and your organization aren’t sure how to answer some of these questions, NABSA is here to help with additional resources, contact information, talking points and more to help you along your advocacy journey.