Overview
The Partnering Initiative (TPI) is a UK-based non-profit organisation established in 2003 to support cross-sector collaboration for sustainable development. The organisation focuses on improving the theory and practice of multi-stakeholder partnerships involving business, government, civil society, philanthropy and international institutions.
TPI’s mission is centred on helping organisations build effective partnerships that can address complex environmental, social and economic challenges. Its work is closely linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and broader sustainability and ESG-related collaboration frameworks.
Mission and focus areas
TPI works to strengthen collaboration capabilities across sectors through advisory services, training, research and partnership facilitation. Its focus areas include partnership strategy, systems change, SDG implementation, organisational partnering capacity and collaborative governance.
The organisation contributes to sustainability and responsible business practices by helping organisations develop partnerships that support long-term social and environmental outcomes. Its programmes often involve international development agencies, multinational companies, NGOs and UN entities working on sustainable finance, climate action, inclusive development and impact-driven initiatives.
TPI also undertakes action research and policy work to improve understanding of effective partnership models. This includes developing practical frameworks and guidance for collaboration across complex stakeholder environments.
Structure and governance
The organisation operates as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee in England and Wales. Its governance structure includes a board of trustees and a UK-based core team supported by a global network of associates and partner organisations.
TPI works internationally through collaborations with governments, donor agencies, corporations, academic institutions and multilateral organisations. It also contributes to policy discussions and partnership infrastructure initiatives linked to the UN system and sustainable development agendas.
Programs and offerings
TPI provides professional training, organisational advisory services, partnership facilitation and knowledge resources. Its Knowledge Centre includes frameworks, research publications, case studies, toolkits and practical guidance designed to improve partnering capability and collaborative impact.
Key initiatives include the SDG Partnership Accelerator, partnership platform development, consortium learning programmes and climate-focused collaboration projects. TPI also delivers tailored support to organisations seeking to integrate partnership approaches into sustainability, ESG and development strategies.
Our mission and values
Our mission is to unleash the power of partnership by systematising and professionalising the practice of collaboration and building the capabilities and supportive infrastructure that allow partnering to thrive.
Through our work and interactions we strive to be:
- open and generous in knowledge-sharing
- informed and rigorous
- impact and results-driven
- pragmatic and practical
- agile and nimble
- authentic and genuine
- accessible and egalitarian
- independent and unbiased
Underpinning all our work is an ongoing practice of review and self reflection to further explore how best to push the boundaries of partnership theory and practice.
