The Public Affairs Role of the Semiconductor Coalition in Oregon
Public Affairs Case Study - Oregon
Introduction
Coastline provided strategic and public affairs support to the Oregon Semiconductor Task Force and legislative coalition. Featuring more than 30 member organizations, the coalition successfully worked together to pass a groundbreaking bill that secured $210 million in investment for the semiconductor industry in the state, strongly positioning Oregon to receive CHIPS Act funds. Coastline was crucial in securing favorable media placements, driving strategic messaging, engaging stakeholders, and aligning external communication.
The semiconductor industry in Oregon faces increased competition on a national level, and there continues to be a strong need for substantial state investment to remain globally competitive. The Semiconductor Coalition, formed by key industry stakeholders, recognized the urgency of securing legislative support needed to attract investment, allocate strategic sites, and invest in workforce development.
Strategy
Coalition Building and Stakeholder Engagement: The Semiconductor Coalition united industry leaders, research institutions, and economic development organizations under a common goal. By leveraging collective influence and expertise, the coalition established a strong network of supporters and engaged stakeholders throughout the public affairs campaign. They actively sought endorsements from influential thought leaders, industry professionals, and community organizations to bolster their credibility and amplify their message.
Strategic Messaging: Coastline played a critical role in developing and refining strategic messaging. Through extensive research and analysis, we identified key talking points to effectively communicate the economic benefits, job creation potential, and technological advancements associated with the semiconductor industry. The messaging aimed to resonate with policymakers, the media, and Oregonians, highlighting the industry's importance to Oregon's economy and future prosperity.
Media Relations and Placements: Coastline leveraged expertise in media to secure favorable placements and coverage by proactively engaging with reporters, crafting statements, and facilitating interviews to highlight the significance of the bill and its potential impact. Thoughtful media outreach ensured that the Semiconductor Coalition's message reached a wide audience and garnered positive public sentiment.
Thought Leadership and Op-Eds: The public affairs team identified opportunities for thought leaders within the Semiconductor Coalition to submit opinion editorials (op-eds) to appropriate outlets. By strategically placing op-eds written by industry experts and local elected officials, the coalition aimed to help shape the narrative and influence policymakers.
Stakeholder Content Development: Coastline worked closely with the Semiconductor Coalition to furnish compelling content for various stakeholders, including legislators, community leaders, and potential investors. This included briefing materials, fact sheets, and key talking points, and graphics that effectively communicated the benefits of funding. Tailored content helped key stakeholders understand the legislation's significance and empowered them to advocate for its passage.
Alignment of External Communications: The public affairs team ensured consistent and aligned external communication throughout the campaign. They closely coordinated with coalition members, carefully reviewing public statements, speeches, and press releases to maintain a cohesive message. By eliminating any conflicting messaging, they presented a united front and reinforced the Semiconductor Coalition's credibility and influence.
Results
The public affairs efforts led by the Semiconductor Coalition and supported by Coastline resulted in significant achievements:
- Successful Bill Passage: The collaborative public affairs strategy resulted in the successful passage of SB 4, which secured a $210 million in investment for the semiconductor industry in Oregon. The legislation also gave unique power to the governor to bypass Oregon’s infamous land use laws, establishing a favorable regulatory environment for industry growth.
- Advantageous Media Coverage: Through strategic media relations, the coalition secured extensive media coverage, including positive news stories, op-eds, and interviews. This helped shape a favorable public perception of the semiconductor industry's importance, generating support from the public and key decision-makers.
- Increased Stakeholder Engagement: The engagement of thought leaders, industry professionals, lobbyists, and community organizations expanded the coalition's network of supporters. By effectively communicating the bill's economic impact and job creation potential, the coalition fostered active engagement and advocacy from stakeholders, strengthening their collective voice and influence.
- Long-Term Economic Impact: The successful passage of the bill ensured long-term economic growth and job creation in Oregon. The $210 million investment in the semiconductor industry positioned the state as a leading hub for innovation and attracted additional investments, driving economic prosperity and technological advancements.
Conclusion: The Semiconductor Coalition's public affairs campaign played a pivotal role in securing legislative support and promoting the semiconductor industry's economic importance in Oregon. Through strategic messaging, media relations, stakeholder engagement, and aligned external communication, the coalition successfully achieved its goals, resulting in substantial investment, granting special land use power, and a promising future for Oregon’s semiconductor sector.
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