025: How to Lobby the Government, with Paul Arcangeli
Dec 4, 2023
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Paul Arcangeli, a national security expert with over three decades of public sector defense experience, discusses the accuracy of bomb disposal scenes in 'Hurt Locker', ongoing efforts to search for soldiers MIA, the role of lobbyists in government, earmarks and lobbying, and the difference between NDAA and Defense Appropriations. He also explores lobbying for technology funding and the importance of knowledge and understanding in securing government support.
Hiring lobbyists can help startups navigate the regulatory environment and secure funding through authorization and appropriations.
Lobbyists provide valuable insights, connections, and strategic guidance to startups, ensuring they are well-positioned to navigate the government landscape and protect against regulatory obstacles.
Deep dives
The Value of Lobbyists for Startups
Hiring lobbyists can provide startups with valuable advocacy and representation in the government. Lobbyists can raise awareness of a company's technology or product and help navigate the complex regulatory environment. They can work to secure authorization language in bills like the National Defense Authorization Act, which can lead to long-term benefits. Additionally, lobbyists can assist startups in securing appropriations for research and development funding. The combination of authorization and appropriations can drive both short-term and long-term value for startups, including increased valuation and the potential for government contracts. Lobbyists also help companies stay informed about legislative changes and potential funding opportunities.
Understanding the Difference Between Authorization and Appropriations
Authorization and appropriations are two distinct legislative processes. Authorization refers to the creation or modification of government programs, policies, or activities, and it includes the authorization of funding. Appropriations, on the other hand, involve the allocation of money to specific government agencies or programs. The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is an example of an authorization bill, while the Defense Appropriations Act deals specifically with the allocation of funding for defense-related activities. Startups should be aware of the difference between these two processes and the specific benefits each can provide. Authorization language can drive long-term policy changes, while appropriations can provide short-term funding.
The Role of Lobbyists in Directing Funding
Lobbyists play a crucial role in directing funding to specific areas or companies. Through advocacy and strategic connections, lobbyists can work to ensure that funding is allocated to the right programs or technologies. Startups should know their target customers within government agencies and understand the landscape of their specific industry. By working with lobbyists, startups can communicate their value proposition and technology to the right people in the government, increasing their chances of securing funding. Lobbyists also help companies navigate the complex legislative process and monitor changes that may impact their funding or business environment.
The Importance of Lobbyists for Series A/B Startups
Series A/B startups can greatly benefit from the expertise and advocacy of lobbyists. As companies grow, they face new challenges and increased competition, which lobbyists can help address. Lobbyists provide invaluable insights, connections, and strategic guidance to startups, ensuring they are well-positioned to navigate the government landscape. Startups without lobbyists may be at risk of missing out on funding opportunities, facing regulatory obstacles, or being unaware of legislative changes that could affect their business. Lobbyists can not only help secure financial support but also protect startups against unfair competition or negative regulatory developments.
Paul Arcangeli is a national security expert, with over three decades of public sector defense experience. He served as an officer in the United States Army, as a Department of Defense civilian, and as a professional staffer to the House of Representatives. Paul spent 18 years on the House Armed Services Committee, including more than a decade as staff director.
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