Lobbying

Government Relations

Experience. Relationships. Creativity. Success.

For twenty years, TCG’s experienced lobbyists and consultants have provided clients with a full range of integrated services to address their government relations needs. Our clients range from large, multi-national corporations to local, grassroots associations. We have represented clients before every legislative committee and every state agency.

Legislative Monitoring

In an average session at the General Assembly, thousands of bills are filed and hundreds become law. Even if clients don’t have a direct interest in pursuing legislation, ignoring the process can have severe consequences. As a constant presence at the Legislative Office Building, State Capitol and at state agencies, TCG alerts our clients to issues that arise before they appear on the public’s radar screen, with a constantly updated bill-tracking system that is fully integrated and available online. This information provides them a critical advantage in today’s difficult business climate.

Grassroots Organizing

TCG also uses its experience in the organization of grassroots initiatives and coalition building to advance our clients’ interests. Our grassroots organizing campaigns maximize political influence by delivering valuable constituent support for client initiatives to decision-makers, often the difference between a winning and losing campaign. Whether the message must be delivered directly or through “free” media, we have been there before. Our staff can help you develop materials, craft your message, implement the logistics and maximize your clout.

Legislative and Regulatory Campaigns

Lobbying is about more than knowing the right people. TCG’s legislative and regulatory campaign services consist of evaluating, monitoring, structuring, drafting and promoting legislative and administrative initiatives. Our experienced team of lobbyists analyzes and interprets Connecticut statutory provisions, and works closely with key staff to draft legislation. Day-to-day lobbying, public relations and the myriad facets of a successful campaign are addressed. Our company specializes in solving public policy conflicts and seizing opportunities for our clients.

Regulatory Issues

TCG has developed significant expertise in representing a wide spectrum of client interests on administrative and regulatory matters. We have strong working relationships with commissioners and department heads at virtually all Connecticut state agencies. Additionally, TCG works in collaboration with the law firm of Tobin, Carberry, O’Malley, Riley, Selinger, P.C. whose practice frequently involves representing clients on telecommunications and utility issues at the Department of Public Utility Control, public contract matters at the Department of Public Works, tax problems at the Department of Revenue Services, economic development and housing projects at the Department of Economic and Community Development, and health care issues at the Departments of Public Health and Social Services.

Association Management

A Full-Service Association Management Company

Professional societies, trade associations and other non-profit, philanthropic organizations are generally driven by a core of committed volunteers. Unfortunately, most members have occupations which limit the time they can spend on association duties. And, of course, even a single staff person can be overwhelmed by the breadth of activities required to run a successful organization.

TCG’s professionals can provide all the routine services (i.e., telephone reception, mail routing, fax services, headquarters and meeting space, mailing services, printing, supplies, etc) required to operate your organization (small or large) in a cost effective manner. More importantly, we enable volunteers to devote their time to core issues instead of administrative distractions. Whether the need is as simple as planning an annual event or staffing a board of directors meeting, or as advanced as creating a five-year plan and/or initiating new revenue-generating ideas, we have the experience to help our clients achieve their goals and, thus, ensure the organization’s future.

Administration

Many associations come to professional management companies because of the “little day-to-day things” associated with running an organization that just take up too much of a volunteer’s time. TCG’s staff can provide all the routine services (i.e., telephone reception, mail routing, fax services, association headquarters and meeting space, mailing services, printing, supplies, etc.) required to operate your organization in a cost-effective manner. More importantly, we enable volunteers to devote their time to core issues instead of administrative distractions.

Meetings

Meetings are key to the existence of many organizations, as they afford members an intense view of the association’s activities. Whether arrangements involve a single Board of Directors meeting or a multi-day joint conference with other organizations, TCG will expedite the entire process. From negotiating hotel contracts, to designing marketing materials, to coordinating the presenter’s a/v needs, we have “been there, done that.”

Communications

“If an association does great things, but no one knows about them, did they really happen?” Communication is the lifeblood of any association. Members need to be kept abreast of all the organization’s activities so they can become involved and maximize the benefits of their membership. With this in mind, TCG designs communication strategies specific to our clients’ needs, including–but not limited to—producing newsletters, establishing “fax networks,” and creating websites. Effective communication ultimately enhances professional image, promotes organizational growth, and increases political influence. Don’t do it the way you’ve always done it. Let us help you find the best way to communicate your message today.

Governance

Do the same volunteers perform all the work in your organization? Do you have trouble filling Board positions when a member resigns? Are your Board meetings unfocused? Do you let issues that are urgent, but not particularly important, dominate your meetings?

If the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” you will benefit from our association professionals’ support. Establishing an effective committee structure with opportunities to develop new leaders is essential to a strong, vibrant association. Long-range strategic planning with stakeholders will help a Board remain focused on important goals, not just attend to today’s crisis.

Services TCG Provides:

• Association Formation/Transition Services
• Membership Development/Retention
• Conference and Event Management
• Exhibit and Tradeshow Management
• Strategic Planning and Leadership Development
• Marketing
• Website Management
• Headquarters Infrastructure
• Governance

Project Specific Services:

• Conference and Seminar Management
• Event Management (i.e. golf tournaments, wine tastings, holiday parties,etc.)
• Exhibit and Tradeshow Management
• Strategic Planning and Board/Leadership Training
• Website and Technology Development
• Promotional Items
• Bulk Mailing Coordination
• Graphic Design Services/Printing Services
• Fundraising