Getting Your Budget Submission Right

A Delayed Start to Budget Season

The federal budget process usually works like clockwork. So much so that nearly every federal budget ever presented was released in the first four months of the year, usually ahead of the April 1 fiscal calendar reset.

This year is different. This year’s budget will be released in the fall and will have the latest release date since Prime Minister Paul Martin unveiled his so-called “Security Budget” in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks in December 2001.

Initially, the Minister of Finance had stated that there would be no regularly scheduled spring budget, despite suggestions from some quarters that the public service was capable of delivering one ahead of the summer recess of Parliament. This quickly turned into the widespread understanding that there would be no budget tabled in 2025 at all.

Prime Minister Carney soon corrected this idea and has made clear that the timeline has simply been bumped back to give the government time to fully flesh out its fiscal plan. Advocacy organizations across Canada now have sufficient runway and a golden opportunity to get their priorities on the new government’s political agenda before the budget is finalized.

A Summer of Submission Writing

One way that advocacy organizations get their priorities on the government’s political agenda is through what’s called a budget submission. If this government engagement technique is new to you, you’re not alone. Most Canadians have very little knowledge about the budget consultation process.

A budget submission is a formal proposal that organizations send to governments—usually the Department of Finance or relevant ministries—outlining how they believe public funds should be allocated. The government won’t always agree with the content of a submission. But by creating a submission, an organization is giving the government food for thought on a given policy issue, rather than assuming decision-makers in Ottawa are already aware of the issues the submission tackles.

Although the federal budget won’t be tabled until the fall, the budget planning cycle starts well in advance. Federal departments will begin shaping their internal priorities over the summer. While we don’t yet know the formal date of the budget, you can expect the budget submission deadline to be by the end of August or in early September at the very latest.

Whether your organization is pushing for climate investments, public health supports, affordable housing, or equity in funding for underserved communities, the months ahead are critical. Now is the time to refine your message, back it with evidence, and present a compelling case.

Writing a Strong Submission

A submission isn’t just a policy memo—it’s a story. The most successful submissions combine narrative clarity, strategic alignment, and strong evidence. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• A clearly defined problem, supported by relevant data
• Real-world examples or human impact stories that make the issue tangible
• A well-articulated solution, with concrete recommendations
• Cost estimates (where possible) and alignment with existing government priorities
• A tone that is assertive but constructive—this is a conversation, not a confrontation

Submissions are reviewed during the budget development process and can help shape the priorities reflected in the final document. They are especially effective when:

• They represent the voice of a community or sector,
• They offer actionable, costed recommendations, and
• They align with broader government commitments.

How Lightbulb Narrative Can Help

At Lightbulb Narrative, we help non-profits, associations, and advocacy organizations amplify their political engagement by delivering clear and effective messages that connect with both voters and decision-makers. Whether you are planning to submit a formal budget submission or advocate in other ways, we can help with:

• Narrative Framing: We shape your messaging so it not only makes sense on paper but also resonates in the rooms where decisions are made.
• Strategic Messaging: We collaborate with your team to ensure your messages are sharp, your asks are aligned with government signals, and your voice is heard.
• Budget Submissions: We help you take your data and policy recommendations and turn them into a clear, persuasive budget submission that the government can act on.

The months ahead offer an important opportunity to influence the direction of public spending and make sure your organization’s vision for change is heard. We’re here to help you make the most of them.

Ready to start drafting your submission or need help clarifying your messaging? Visit lightbulbnarrative.com/political-advocacy or email us at solutions@lightbulbnarrative.com to schedule a discovery call.

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Theresa Lubowitz is the owner and founder of Lightbulb Narrative. She has over a decade of experience delivering high-quality strategic advice and communications support to leaders in government, business, and the non-profit sector.