Trust is the basis for strong collaboration. Good governance, solid financial management and reporting, and truthful and transparent communications demonstrate trust. Trustworthiness can lead to better results and more willingness to collaborate.

Know the expectations of both the project and collaborative participants. All participants must be fulfilled for a project to succeed, and regular intervals for discussion and a willingness to adjust are needed to achieve this goal.

Establish several promising collaborations with potential for new value. Prioritize these projects based on assets and deficiencies of each partner until the best match is identified for your organization's values and goals.

New, even previously unconsidered value can be found with corporations, startups, social networks, or other nonprofits outside your issue area.