The biggest projects in Massachusetts get to yes in the room. We know the room.
Zakim Strategies helps organizations navigate government, develop transformative real estate projects, secure public approvals, and execute complex public-private initiatives.
Josh Zakim
An attorney and former Boston City Councilor, Josh has been intimately involved in all aspects of Boston's government, and has also worked regionally and across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Over six productive years on the Council, he chaired the committees on Housing & Community Development, Civil Rights, and Transportation, convening policymakers to enact legislation on the issues that matter most to the city. In 2018 he ran statewide for Massachusetts Secretary of State. As a former legislator himself, Josh knows what motivates decision makers and how to make the case that gets a result.
Navigate Government.
Build Great Projects.
Deliver Lasting Impact.
Zakim Strategies advises developers, institutions, professional sports teams, nonprofits, and private companies on complex projects requiring political strategy, public approvals, community engagement, and government relations.
Four ways we move projects forward
Legislative & Policy Advocacy
A former legislator who knows what motivates decision makers, with a long record of persuading city, state, and executive officials to back major policy changes.
Government & Community Relations
Deep roots in Boston municipal government and a strong regional network, from neighborhood groups and large institutions to mayors and legislators across the Commonwealth.
Permitting & Licensing
Hundreds of applications reviewed from inside City Hall. We help clients build support and navigate every step, from stakeholder meetings to regulatory hearings.
Real Estate Development
Firsthand experience overseeing major downtown projects, working with community leaders, the BPDA, and elected officials through the review and approval process.
Services
Government Relations
Real Estate Advisory
Public Affairs
Who we serve
Real Estate Developers
Helping projects move from concept through permitting and community approval.
Institutions
Universities, hospitals, nonprofits and major employers navigating state and local government.
Affordable Housing
State and federal housing finance, permitting, public-private partnerships.
Private Companies
Government affairs, licensing and strategic problem solving.
Have a project that needs to get to yes?
Tell us what you are building. We will tell you how to get it approved.
Let's talk about what you're building.
Zakim Strategies, a trusted advisor to
Hear From the Press
Josh Zakim to leave City Council at the end of his term.
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Zakim, Pressley co-sponsor order against workplace harassment.
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Commission proposed to investigate workplace bias in the Boston Fire Department.
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Mayor Walsh signs ordinance to increase access to voting in Boston.
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Josh Zakim featured on Bloomberg Business.