Your Go-To Hub for Campaign Tools & Guides
Thinking about running for office? Whether you’re just starting to explore the idea or actively planning your campaign, we’ve got the resources to help you succeed.
At PoliticsNOW, we believe in equipping women with the tools and knowledge to run strong, effective campaigns at the municipal level. That’s why we offer free, expert-backed resources—from downloadable templates and campaign strategy guides to insider tips from seasoned campaigners.
Here, you'll find downloadable campaign tools, step-by-step guides, and insider strategies—all designed to help you navigate your path to leadership. Whether you need a campaign event checklist, a social media calendar, or expert tips on working with the media, you'll find everything you need below.
Free Resources to Power Your Campaign
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Free Resources to Power Your Campaign 〰️
Campaign Tools & Templates
Access free downloads, checklists, and step-by-step guides designed to help you organize, strategize, and run an effective campaign. These resources are easy to use and packed with actionable advice.
Running for office? Download our free Campaign Success Roadmap to learn the 12 essential steps you need to take to win your election.
Thinking about running for office? Download our free checklist with 22 actionable steps to help you build your campaign foundation—even years before the election.
Stay organized and consistent with our free social media content calendar template—customizable, easy to use, and designed for winning campaigns.
Get two free campaign event planning checklists—covering best practices and a step-by-step guide. Plan an engaging, successful event with confidence!
Access four expert-led webinars covering campaign strategy, fundraising, and outreach—designed for women running for council or school board. Watch for free!
Identify your core political values to strengthen your campaign messaging. Download this free list to define your purpose and connect with voters.
Maximize your network's potential and create a successful campaign. From funding to voter outreach, this tool simplifies finding supporters. Get ready to make a significant impact!
Maximize your network's potential and create a successful campaign. From funding to voter outreach, this tool simplifies finding supporters. Get ready to make a significant impact!
Save time with ready-to-use campaign email templates for fundraising, volunteer recruitment, and GOTV. Download and customize your copy today!
Create stunning campaign posters with our Canva templates. Personalize colors, fonts, and align with your campaign style. Simply sign up for a free Canva account to get started.
Campaign Strategy & Insights
Looking for insights from the field? Our blog features advice, lessons, and strategies from experienced campaigners. We pull from our campaign school sessions, newsletters, and coaching programs to bring you the best tips on running for office and making an impact.
Your campaign message is more than a slogan. Learn how to build a clear, authentic, and consistent message that helps voters understand who you are, what you care about, and why you're running.
Asking for money can be one of the hardest parts of running for office. Learn how to make a political donation ask that feels natural, clear, and confident (without feeling pushy or salesy.)
Your campaign needs people, but asking for help can feel awkward. Learn how to make a clear, specific volunteer ask and build a campaign team that wants to be there.
Knocking on doors for the first time can feel intimidating. Here’s what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of those first conversations with voters.
Every candidate gets asked, “Why are you running?” Learn how to build a genuine, memorable answer that connects your experience, your values, and the reason you decided to step up.
When social media platforms can disappear overnight, how do politicians stay connected? This post explores how to build resilient communication strategies—email lists, town halls, and community engagement—so you’re never left out of touch with your constituents.
Master the digital landscape of municipal elections! From crafting an authentic online persona to leveraging social media, DIY graphic design, and the power of email, this guide unveils a tactical arsenal for success. Success in the digital age is within reach—navigate the online battlefield and propel your campaign forward with strategic planning and authenticity.
Navigate municipal politics with finesse by strategically building relationships with the media. Your story, authenticity, and timely communication are key to impactful connections.
A strong team is essential for a successful municipal election campaign. Each member plays a crucial role, from advocates to strategic thinkers and communicators. Assemble a winning team to support, guide, and empower you on your journey to victory.
In small towns, it is important to ensure that women's voices and experiences are heard in local municipal councils. By building a strong network of supporters who share our vision, we can drive our DIY campaigns towards success. Let's explore practical strategies to cultivate a robust support system, empowering us to make a positive difference in our communities.
Are you a woman considering a run for municipal office? Don't let the challenges of campaigning deter you! In this post, we share essential tips for breaking through barriers and making your campaign a success, from building a strong support network to navigating gender bias in the political arena.
The election is over, but your campaign's financial work isn't quite finished. Learn how to organize your records, prepare your financial statement, handle leftover inventory and surpluses, and make sure you meet your filing deadline.
By understanding the rules for fundraising in a municipal campaign, you’ll be better equipped and more organized.
By understanding what phase your campaign is in, you’ll better be able to plan to win. Learn what those phases are, what the parts of campaigning entail, and start getting your campaign plan together.
You’ve finally made the decision, and now it’s time to share your news with the world. Here is some advice on the steps you need to take before you announce your political candidacy, so that you can take advantage of this momentous day.
Ever wondered how to start establishing your name in your new community and how to make the connections you'll need to make a run for office? We’ve got 3 tips to get you started.
Ready to start getting your campaign organized? We’re here to help you with some handy tips on how to take your personal inventory and start building yourself up to get ready for your campaign.
The first question you have to ask yourself before you run for office is this: does your community see you as a leader? We’ve got some ideas on how to help you expand. your qualifications before you run for office.
Didn’t find what you were looking for? Search through all of our resources.
Around the Internet
You don’t have to search high and low for great campaign resources—we’ve done the work for you. Here, you'll find a curated list of the best online tools, articles, and research to support your campaign journey.
Organizations
REGIONAL
BPW Sudbury
She & Her
Women In Politics
PROVINCIAL
Association of Municipalities Ontario
City For All Women
Elect Her Now
Leadership féminin Prescott-Russell
Municipal Campaign School (Guelph, Oxford County, Wellington County)
Operation Black Vote
Platform
Proud Politics
Status of Women Ontario
Waterloo Region Women’s Municipal Campaign School
NATIONAL
Equal Voice
Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities
Samara Canada
Women and Gender Equality Canada
Women In House
Women In Local Government
Women Of Influence
Women Transforming Cities
INTERNATIONAL
EMILY’s List
Get Her Elected
Higher Heights for America
Run For Something
She Should Run
Vote Run Lead
Victory Institute
Resources
READING
2022 Candidates’ Guide - Ontario municipal council and school board elections
Ministry of Municipal Affairs
Canadian Women in Local Leadership (CanWILL)
Federation of Canadian Municipalities
Municipal 101
Association of Municipalities Ontario
Municipal Elections in Canada: a guide for women candidates
Federation of Canadian Municipalities
The Essential Guide to Being Elected
Equal Voice & Carleton University
LISTENING
No Second Chances (Podcast)
Canada 2020
PROGRAMS
Found these resources helpful?
The resources you've enjoyed here come from a shared vision: electing more women and ensuring they have the tools to succeed. Behind every article, guide, and download is a deep commitment to supporting women in leadership across Northern Ontario and beyond.
If this work has helped you, consider giving back. Your support allows us to continue providing these crucial resources and empowering diverse voices in politics. Every contribution makes a difference.
Support our cause and ensure these resources remain freely accessible to all!
Consider joining a municipal board to positively impact your community and gain valuable leadership experience. The application process is open to anyone, regardless of background or experience. Don't miss the chance to get involved and make a difference.