Advocacy & Public Policy Resources

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Nonprofits play a vital role in shaping public policy through nonpartisan advocacy.

501(c)3 nonprofits are legally allowed to participate in advocacy, but must remain nonpartisan. Legal, nonpartisan activities include issue advocacy and lobbying, speaking up about the issues central to your mission, and encouraging civic engagement.

By focusing on facts, community needs, and policy solutions rather than partisan politics, you can boldly influence meaningful change and strengthen civic engagement within their communities.

Supporting community during ICE operations

MCN is working to provide resources and guidance that support nonprofit operations during this crisis, and to ensure allies get connected to community needs.

Nonprofit resources & actions >>

Actions for non-Minnesotans >>

Navigating Federal actions and uncertainty

MCN is actively engaging with elected officials and the National Council of Nonprofits to monitor these actions; our goal is to mitigate the impact on our state’s vulnerable communities and the operations of Minnesota’s 8,641 nonprofits and their 376,328 employees.

To that end, we have compiled the latest news, vetted resources, and calls to action to help you navigate.

Impact of Federal decisions >>

Advocacy Check-Up
Asses your overall compliance with federal and state advocacy-related tracking and reporting requirements, and identify opportunities to build your advocacy capacity, from Boulder Advocacy.

Lobbying / Issue Advocacy

Organizations have a responsibility to serve as a resource to elected officials who rely upon the experience and expertise of the nonprofit sector to inform their understanding of the issues and the policy choices they make at every level of government.

As part of your issue advocacy, 501(c)(3) public charities may engage in lobbying, and attempt to influence pending legislation. This activity is perfectly OK (and highly encouraged, although limited) for public charities to participate in, even during election years.

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Helpful Tips for Contacting Legislators

Federal Law and Nonprofit Lobbying

How to Conduct a Day on the Hill

Find Your Elected Officials

Registration and Reporting Requirements for Lobbyists

Nonprofit Lobbying and the 501(h) Election

Civic Engagement

501(c)(3) organizations can absolutely engage in nonpartisan election season advocacy. You can educate voters, discuss key issues, and even host candidate forums all while staying true to the organization’s cause and advancing its mission.