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Our Story

Erin Schmidt, founder and CEO of Lilypad Strategies
Erin Schmidt, founder

After more than 14 years in senior communications roles, working with every kind of organization - from advocacy coalitions to Fortune 10 companies - I took the leap and founded Lilypad, a purpose-driven public affairs firm. 

Our mission is simple: to help changemakers do as much good as possible through effective public affairs. We're honored to serve organizations leading important conversations on healthcare access, responsible technology, racial equity, economic opportunity, and other pressing issues facing our communities.

As a proud woman-owned business, we also believe in supporting other entrepreneurs - especially those from underrepresented communities. If you are a woman- or minority-owned business in a related field, we'd love to learn more about your work and ways to partner.  Drop us a line to say hello. 

Two Ripples

Why Lilypad?

One of the most resilient plants in nature, the strength of lily pads lies in their interconnectivity.

These flowering plants share a deep root system that helps them not only withstand the elements, but flourish and multiply.

We think the lily pad is a pretty apt metaphor for what it takes to drive impact and create meaningful change. Our holistic public affairs approach is rooted in the philosophy that the most resilient and effective organizations are those that understand and celebrate the power of community.

Image by Lynn Kintziger
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