Engaging in Lobbying

Step 1: Understand what Lobbying is

Lobbying is defined as any direct communication (oral, written, or grassroots) with an elected official or senior government employee with the intention of influencing a law, policy, decision, or program.


Step 2: Determine if registration is required

While lobbying is a permitted charitable activity, it is regulated at the municipal, provincial, and federal level. These regulations require that charities share details on who they lobby, and what they lobby on, through a publicly accessible lobbyist registration. 

Projects that are planning to lobby should consult with their Project Specialist to determine if they will be required to register. 

Because lobbying is regulated at different levels (municipal, provincial, and federal) the regulations vary on jurisdiction. Projects should consult with their Project Specialist whenever they are lobbying in a new jurisdiction to ensure they are following the appropriate rules.  

Step 3: Review lobbying materials with MakeWay

Projects must submit all lobbying materials to their Project Specialist for review. 

Step 4: Track and report lobbying

Projects must regularly report all lobbying activities and hours to their Project Specialist. This is necessary to ensure that the Project and MakeWay are in compliance with the various lobbyist registries. 

Failure to report lobbying activities or submitting false or misleading information can result in fines of up to $200,000.