Collaborate Strategic Options Lab

Build a board‑ready partnership roadmap.

Whether you’re considering shared services, a strategic alliance, or exploring merger conversations, this cohort-based, consultant-led program guides your team from an idea (“we should collaborate”) to a well‑defined model and an executable partnership plan.

Note: This offering is part of our Strategic Options Lab program. Learn more here.

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Format and time commitment

• Four 90-minute modules
• Open consulting hours
• End-of-cohort evaluation survey
• A three-month and six-month check-in with GCN

Takeaway Tools & Templates

• Assess Need & Readiness: Collaboration Inventory & Assessment, Collaboration Criteria, Fit & Feasibility Assessment, Key Questions Checklist
• Explore & Select Options: Case for Collaboration, Collaboration Options Matrix & Model
• Plan & Engage Partners: Collaboration Roadmap, Partner Outreach Planning Guide

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Audience

Nonprofits that recognize the need to adapt strategically in today’s funding and service environment – especially those facing resource constraints or funding volatility, as well as:

• Seeing opportunities for greater efficiency, reduced duplication, or increased reach alongside peer organizations
• Readiness to explore integrated impact, partnership, alliance, or merger options (including board and leadership support)
• Operating in areas where funders or government partners are looking for greater coordination or consolidation

Team participation is strongly recommended. An ideal team includes organizational decision-makers such as the executive leader, finance lead, and program/operations lead, but may also include other relevant staff and board members.

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Included Courses

Module 1 | Develop the Case for Collaboration

November 4 | 9:00 – 10:30 am
Clarify strategic motivations, value propositions, and non-negotiables.

Toolkit:

• Collaboration Inventory and Assessment Template
• Case for Collaboration Template
• Collaboration Criteria

Module 2 | Assess Strategic Fit & Feasibility

November 18 | 9:00 – 10:30 am
Score potential partners and quantify opportunities, risks, and alignment.

Toolkit:

• Fit & Feasibility Assessment Tool
• Collaboration Options Matrix

Module 3 | Choose Collaboration Model

December 2 | 9:00 – 10:30 am
Select the right structures for key collaborations – from program collaboration to shared services, strategic affiliation, joint venture, or merger.

Toolkit:

• Collaboration Options Model
• Key Questions Checklist

Module 4 | Develop Your Roadmap for Collaboration

December 16 | 9:00 – 10:30 am
Plan outreach, engagement, and collaboration development.

Toolkit:

• Collaboration Roadmap Template
• Partner Outreach Planning Guide