nonprofit team leaders and team happily meeting and shaking hands in nonprofit merger partnership
Mission + Strategy's brand icon graphic in light orange color, its design is four circles that overlap symmetrically to create a plus sign shape in the middle and represent collaboration

6-Step Collaboration Process

Embarking on a partnership journey requires a well-defined process. Our 6-step Collaboration Process serves as this path, guiding organizations through the intricate landscape of forming strategic partnerships. Each step, from preparation to integration, is designed with the organization’s unique needs and goals in mind. This process not only ensures compatibility and strategic fit but also paves the way for successful and sustainable collaborations.

close shot of team members' hands working together and collaborating on paperwork for nonprofit merger and partnership

  • Identify critical organizational challenge

  • Establish partnership committee (typically CEO and Board members)

  • Learn about partnerships as a strategic decision

  • Identify and approach possible partners

  • Identify attorney

1) Preparation

  • Select a partner

  • Form a Joint Planning Committee

  • Conduct a feasibility assessment

  • Prepare and Approve an LOI

2) Exploration

  • Prepare a case statement for a partnership

  • Launch culture assessments

  • Develop a Memorandum of Understanding

  • Create program, administrative, HR, IT and financial plans

  • Approve MOU

3) Planning

  • Begin partnership fundraising

  • Identify Due Diligence Items

  • Exchange Due Diligence Items

  • Summarize and report on findings to each Board

4) Due Diligence

  • Prepare Closing Documents

  • Boards Vote on Closing Documents

5) Closing

  • Form Joint Integration committees and sub-committees

  • Hold planning sessions for integration

  • Develop new workplace culture

6) Integration

close shot from underneath of diverse team members linking hands and arms together in a continuous circle as a sign of teamwork and collaboration

Together, we are stronger.

Ready to strike a balance between your mission and business strategies?