Iowa Government Affairs & Lobbying

High Yield Strategies is a Des Moines-based, bipartisan government affairs firm that helps businesses, associations and organizations advance their priorities at the Iowa Capitol and with state agencies. Whether you need an Iowa lobbyist during the legislative session, a partner to monitor bills that could affect your operations, or strategic counsel on a regulatory issue, HYS combines inside experience in Iowa government with practical political strategy.

Iowa Lobbying & Legislative Representation

Government can be a maze, but with a decade of Iowa government and lobbying experience, HYS gets results. We help clients conceptualize effective legislation, develop bill language and directly lobby lawmakers of both major political parties to achieve their desired outcomes. Just as important, we help clients stop or improve proposals that would harm their organizations.

• Legislative strategy and bill development, from concept to draft language

• Direct lobbying of legislators and legislative leaders in both parties

• Testimony, talking points and materials for subcommittee and committee meetings

• Building support among stakeholders, trade associations and coalition partners

• Engagement with the Governor’s office and state agencies on legislative priorities

Legislative Monitoring & Intelligence

Worried about a problematic bill popping up in Iowa? HYS monitors key legislation, provides regular updates and strategically intervenes to influence results. The Iowa Legislature convenes on the second Monday in January, and bills can be introduced, amended and advanced within days. Funnel deadlines then decide which proposals remain eligible for debate. We track the issues that matter to you and explain what is happening, why it matters and what we recommend.

• Bill tracking and regular updates throughout the legislative session

• Early warning on proposals that could affect your industry

• Analysis of amendments, funnel deadlines and end-of-session negotiations

• Year-round updates on industry and government developments

Regulatory & State Agency Strategy

Many decisions that affect Iowa businesses are made by state agencies, not only by the Legislature. While serving in the Governor’s office, HYS founder Jake Swanson worked directly with the leadership of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, the Iowa Utilities Commission and the Iowa Economic Development Authority/Iowa Finance Authority. HYS helps clients understand how agencies make decisions, navigate regulatory approvals and engage the right officials at the right time.

Why Work With High Yield Strategies

• Experience inside Iowa government. Jake Swanson served as Governor Kim Reynolds’ lead agriculture and energy policy adviser and, before that, as policy adviser and legislative liaison to Iowa Secretaries of Agriculture Bill Northey and Mike Naig.

• A bipartisan approach. We work with lawmakers of both major political parties to conceptualize, draft and lobby legislation, including numerous bills now signed into law.

• Proven results. During the 2024 Iowa legislative session, HYS lobbied to save Iowa cattle producers $18 million in taxes—and won.

• Relationships across Iowa. HYS has built relationships with major companies and trade associations at the State Capitol and throughout Iowa, and Jake has traveled to all 99 Iowa counties.

“Jake Swanson was incredible in making sure we got the biofuels bill across the finish line. He put a lot of work into it, and I was grateful for his efforts in helping get that done.” — Governor Kim Reynolds

Industries We Serve

HYS specializes in agriculture government affairs, energy and biofuels, biotechnology and AgTech, natural resources and economic development. Companies that are new to the state can turn to us for help doing business in Iowa, and our public affairs and strategic communications work helps clients make their case to policymakers and the public.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should we hire an Iowa lobbyist?

Ideally before the legislative session begins. The Iowa Legislature convenes each January, and the first funnel deadline arrives within the first several weeks of session. Engaging early gives you time to build relationships, shape bill language and line up support before key decisions are made.

Do lobbyists have to register in Iowa?

Yes. Iowa law requires lobbyists to register on or before the day their lobbying activity begins. Registrations are valid for the calendar year and are publicly available, and organizations that hire lobbyists have their own reporting obligations. HYS can walk you through the requirements that apply to your organization.

Do you work with companies outside Iowa?

Yes. HYS works with Iowa and out-of-state companies and organizations, from start-ups to corporations, that need a trusted, Iowa-based government affairs partner.

Do you work with both political parties?

Yes. HYS is a bipartisan firm and works with lawmakers of both major political parties.

Ready to talk about your Iowa policy priorities? Email info@hystrategies.com, call 641-799-5094 or use the form below. You can also learn more about HYS founder Jake Swanson.