Brand Partnerships As Joint Ventures- a Comparison of Two Partnerships in the Small Non-Profit Arena

Abstract

Through a case study approach, this article explores how non-profits can effectively participate in joint ventures with larger, for-profit institutions. In addition to offering a new product or service, these partnerships should build the brands of both organizations. The similarity between for-profit business joint ventures and non-profit joint ventures is examined. The author compares two non-profit joint ventures - one successful and one unsuccessful - to demonstrate the importance of several aspects of joint ventures. Just as in business ventures, non-profits must carefully select their partners, have a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities, engage in open communication, and have a written charter of each partner's roles and responsibilities. Most importantly, non-profits must ensure that they are treated as equal partners and that their brand is reinforced in any communication to their stakeholders