This guide synthesizes key insights from our panel on building collaborative, long-term alliances that create shared value for all parties involved.

Phase 1: The Internal Foundation

• [ ] Define Your "Why" First. Before you approach any potential partner, clearly understand your own organization's mission, vision, and values.
• Be ready to answer the question, "What makes you so special?"
• [ ] Know Your Needs. Clearly define what you need from a partnership.
• Is it a gap in skill sets, an audience connection, or a specific service?
• Be able to articulate what you bring to the table as well
• [ ] Set Expectations. Be grounded in your own mission to find a partner that will complement what you do.

Phase 2: The External Strategy

• [ ] Look for Signals. Identify how potential partners are signaling their intentions.
• Check who's advertising or putting out press releases
• Understand their immediate objectives, new hires, or upcoming events
• [ ] Vet Potential Partners. Do your homework to ensure a good fit.
• Check for Red Flags: A partnership isn't authentic if it's solely based on getting eyeballs or a logo
• Check Brand Reputation: Be wary of co-branding with an organization that has a brand in "hot water"
• Align with the Brand, Not the Person: Make sure your alignment is with the company's brand and values
• [ ] Build the "Triple Win" Model. Create a partnership that benefits in this order:

1. The end-user (the donor or client)
2. The partner
3. Your organization