Keys to a Successful Partnership | by David Van Patten

In our industry, a partnership is a formal relationship between two NGOs with complementary capabilities that creates value for both organizations in some way.

In Prison Fellowship, we generally have two types of partners:  strategic partners and program partners. Strategic partnerships help us fulfill our strategy and generate a significant, long-term impact. Program partnerships focus on operational or tactical goals.

Partnerships generally have one or more of the following attributes:

• Increases market share (access more prisoners and their families)
• Increases brand awareness
• Extends our product line (ministry programs)
• Adds value to existing customers
• Shares IP or infrastructure
• Reduce risks; strengthens weaknesses
• Sources new capital

The keys to a successful partnership include:

• Alignment of objectives
• Complementary capabilities
• Effective internal communication and trust
• Accountability and metrics
• Partnership management team
• Clear roles and responsibilities