Advocacy How to Guide
Communicating with NC State Legislators & Why Advocacy Matters
Our downtowns drive:
- Job creation
- Small business growth
- Tourism
- Local tax revenue
- Community vitality
Strong relationships ensure your priorities are heard at the North Carolina General Assembly in Raleigh.
Your downtown is:
A Job Creator | A Tax Generator | A Tourism Driver | A Community Gathering Place
Make sure your voice is heard.
Know Your Legislators
The General Assembly includes:
- 120 House Members
- 50 Senators
Find yours: www.ncleg.gov/FindYourLegislators
Legislative Building:
North Carolina State Legislative Building
The 4-Part Advocacy Formula
1. Introduce Yourself – Provide your name, organization, and district.
2. Define the Issue – What is happening? Why does it matter your downtown?
3. Make the Ask (and be specific)
- Support/Oppose a bill
- Fund a program
- Amend language
4. Offer to be a Resource – Invite them downtown. Provide data and your annual reports. Share impact stories.
How to Communicate
- Keep under 300 words
- Clear subject line
- One specific ask
Phone
- Ask for legislative assistant
- Be concise
- Follow up with email
In Person
- Schedule ahead
- Bring 1-page leave-behind
- Focus on local economic impact
Key Downtown Priorities
- Economic development funding
- Public safety support
- Infrastructure & streetscape investment
- Small business assistance
- Historic preservation incentives
Best Practices
- Be respectful & nonpartisan
- Focus on local impact
- Use data + real stories
- Build relationships year-round
- Always say thank you
Sample Ask
“We respectfully request your support for policies and funding that strengthen downtown revitalization efforts, which directly support small businesses, job creation, and local tax revenue in your district. Specifically, this includes ____________________________”
Return to – Advocacy Priorities