Clearwater Communications

Clearwater Communications is a full-service association management and public relations firm headquartered in Bismarck, United States. Founded in 2001, the firm has grown to a team of more than 18 professionals and support staff who provide management, communication, and administrative services for a wide range of clients. Clearwater Communications specializes in helping nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government entities navigate complex communication challenges while also managing the day-to-day operations of trade associations and professional societies.

Services and Specialties

Clearwater Communications offers a comprehensive suite of services that blend public relations with association management. Their work is grounded in strategic planning, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. While the firm does not list individual service categories, their experience and client base suggest the following core capabilities:

• Association management (including financial and database management)
• Government relations and public affairs
• Meeting and event planning
• Strategic communication planning and execution
• Media relations and press outreach
• Crisis communication and reputation management
• Publishing and content creation (newsletters, reports, digital media)
• Social media management and digital strategy
• Brand messaging and positioning
• Nonprofit board and volunteer management

These services are delivered through a team that understands the unique needs of membership organizations, where communication is often tied to advocacy, fundraising, and member retention. Clearwater Communications also provides administrative support that allows association leaders to focus on strategic goals rather than operational details.

Who They Help and Their Approach

Clearwater Communications primarily serves nonprofit associations, professional societies, and government agencies based in the upper Midwest, with a strong presence in North Dakota. Their clients range from small trade groups to larger statewide organizations that require consistent messaging and reliable management. The firm also works with businesses that need to engage with policymakers or communicate complex regulatory issues to the public.

The approach at Clearwater Communications is hands-on and relationship-driven. Because they manage associations as well as PR, their team often becomes an extension of the client’s staff. This allows for deeper integration into the client’s culture and goals. They emphasize long-term partnerships over one-off campaigns, which is reflected in their retention of clients across multiple years. Their work in government relations, for example, relies on established connections with state and local officials, making local knowledge a key asset.

In terms of communication strategy, Clearwater Communications likely follows a research-first model, gathering data on audience perceptions and media landscapes before recommending tactics. Their publishing capabilities suggest they also place a premium on owned media, helping clients build direct channels to their stakeholders through newsletters, reports, and digital content.

Location and Credentials

Located at 1605 E Capitol Ave in Bismarck, United States, Clearwater Communications is deeply rooted in the North Dakota capital. Bismarck is the political and economic hub of the state, which makes the firm’s location strategic for clients involved in government relations or public policy. The firm’s proximity to the state legislature and regulatory agencies allows them to monitor and respond to policy changes in real time.

Since its founding in 2001, Clearwater Communications has built a reputation for reliability and depth of service. Their team includes professionals with backgrounds in journalism, public relations, event planning, and nonprofit management. While the firm does not publicly list awards or certifications, their longevity in the market—over two decades—is a strong indicator of client satisfaction and operational stability. They are a member of the local business community and likely participate in Bismarck’s Chamber of Commerce or similar professional networks.

Who They Are a Good Fit For

Clearwater Communications is best suited for nonprofit associations, professional societies, and government agencies in North Dakota and the surrounding region that need both PR support and full association management. Organizations that value a single partner for communication, advocacy, and administrative tasks will find this firm particularly efficient. Businesses seeking to influence public policy or build relationships with state government officials will also benefit from their local expertise. Because of their size and focus, Clearwater Communications may not be the right fit for large national brands or companies requiring global PR campaigns. Instead, they excel with clients who need a steady, knowledgeable partner embedded in their operations.