TPI runs open training courses and masterclasses to build professional capabilities for collaboration. Over 8,000 people have undertaken a TPI training course, with 99.95% recommending the course to others.

As resources become more and more constrained, partnering with business is an increasingly essential strategy for NGOs and United Nations agencies. As important as the potential for resource mobilisation, business collaborations can deliver innovation, sustainability, investment, commercially-viable (and therefore scalable) solutions, to deliver far greater, even transformational impact.

However, engaging and forming effective partnerships with companies requires pragmatism, a realistic understanding of how business operates (its incentives, fears, capabilities, structures, language) and deep knowledge of collaborative processes and management.

This highly practical course equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools to engage effectively with businesses. It covers the spectrum of partnerships—from simple resource mobilisation, through co-creative collaborations, to transformational development—helping participants navigate the complexities of business engagement to drive meaningful impact.

This course is designed for partnership professionals from all sectors who are looking to partner with businesses for resource mobilisation or strategic collaboration. Whether you are new to business partnerships or looking to refine your approach, this course will provide valuable insights and actionable tools.

1. Understanding business as a partner in development
2. What makes organisations attractive to business?
3. Types of partnerships & strategic alignment
4. Key building blocks of effective partnerships
5. Developing your value proposition
6. Negotiation & partnership development
7. Measuring success & sustaining outcomes

The course will be delivered via Zoom, over five 2.5-hour sessions spaced over three weeks to allow time for self-study and contextualisation of learning. The approach will be highly participative, including theory and practice, plenary presentations, case-studies and small group discussion and role-play.

By the end of the course, participants will: 

• Gain a clear understanding of different business partnership models and their benefits.
• Develop a tailored strategy for engaging with businesses for resource mobilisation, fund raising or strategic collaboration
• Learn how to identify and articulate their organisation’s unique value proposition.
• Build skills in negotiation, influencing, and managing partnerships effectively.
• Understand key business motivations and decision-making processes.
• Gain practical experience by developing a strategic pitch for potential business partners.
• Receive a complete set of tools for designing and implementing successful partnerships.