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WORK WITH US

Strategic Guidance and Partnership

We navigate the complexities of government business to help our clients achieve their goals and realize the desired impact.

MEET THE TEAM

Barbara Burchett,
Principal

Barbara Burchett, co-founder of Innovative Advocacy, is a seasoned government affairs consultant, representative and strategist, excelling in the formation and implementation of policy positions for national trade associations, organizations, and corporations.
She is effective working as a virtual Washington liaison, knowledgeable in forming and managing political action committees.
Her extensive representation of energy producers, steel manufacturers, transportation and infrastructure providers, and leading consumer goods corporations includes Precast/Prestressed Institute, Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute, Nucor, TST, Inc., Utilicorp United, Midwest Research Institute, Hallmark, and clients of Wiley, Rein & Fielding (Wiley) LLP.

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Professional Headshot of Barbara Burchett, co-founder and principal at Innovative Advocacy, LLC
Professional headshot of Petra Smeltzer, lead consultant at Innovative Advocacy, LLC

Petra Smeltzer,
Consultant

Petra Smeltzer is an accomplished and well-rounded government relations professional with three decades of experience spearheading strategic, practical results for key government and trade organizations including Ohio Governor Bob Taft, Del. Linda Foley (Maryland District 15) and the American Petroleum Institute. She is skilled at building industry coalitions among elected officials, industry executives, and policy groups, consensus-building, legislative lobbying, and public image building. In addition, she is an expert in state and federal political, legislative, and regulatory processes, especially in the areas of energy and environment and a dynamic public speaker. 

The Wharf, Washington D.C.

WHO WE WORK WITH

Private & Public Sector

Our team has extensive experience collaborating with trade associations, small and large businesses, start-ups and coalitions to amplify the impact of our advocacy efforts and drive meaningful change.

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Our trade association partners have embedded our team in the inner-workings of industries enabling a deeper comprehension of issues affecting their employees, customers, and stakeholders.​

Government

Our strong relationships throughout both Congressional Chambers and the Executive Branch are key to demonstrating your organization’s position and achieving your goals effectively.

Industries We Currently Work With

  • Manufacturing & Technology

  • Infrastructure & Transportation

  • Energy & Environment

  • Climate Change & Sustainability

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