Collaboration vs Partnership: Getting it Right
Community Networks • September 10, 2025
Kia ora,
Ahh, such positive and reaffirming words. collaboration and partnership, and how much we all wish these things would work well. I do however think of these two words as two different things.
Collaboration is where one entity works closely with another entity to achieve a goal, whereas partnership seems more like when two entities join together to achieve a goal.
What is necessary for either to work? Well firstly, both entities want to work together. This will never work if one or other of those groups does not want to be there. Therein is a problem when an external funder or force demands that they work together to (for example) access funding for the project or prove that they are able to collaborate.
Before 2 of us need to collaborate, there are some very important essentials we need to check off.
- Firstly, we need a foundation of trust and respect between us. Even if distrust is unspoken, you can be sure that a some point there will be problems between us. Because of this we also need;
- The ability to adapt. We need to value diverse ideas, and check that we can all collectively solve disagreements.
- We also need to have strong skills in communication so we can navigate conflicts successfully.
- Finally, it is really important that both groups operate by similar values.
Why is collaboration important? That’s because collaboration can lead to improved communication and increased productivity. Without showing off too much, that’s how I and my team of Paddy and Dan get so much done together. As a collaborating team we really rock. This is precious and special, because normally it is rare and when it works, it really works.
Partnership is another story. Some things must be truly mutually shared. Everyone needs to establish clear roles and responsibilities. However, we also need
- Financial transparency
- Flexibility and
- A shared commitment to the partnership’s success.
Make sure you do your research well before you enter a partnership. A partnership usually is more formal, long-term, and legal. The partners share the risks, responsibilities, and rewards therefore it is a deeper relationship. Partnerships often involve cash decisions, so be very very careful about who you partner with, and make sure you have a lot of legal advice.
A more harmonious way to go forward is usually a collaboration, but whichever way you go, in fact the better way to go if you run an NGO, is with great care, and a lot of conversation with your ‘other’ organisation to cover problems. Good luck. I’m extremely lucky that my collaboration with the two amazing guys who work with me, is a great success. Hold on a minute! Is that Patrick yelling swear words and heading down the corridor? Come back, come back Patrick, we can work it out!!
Ngā mihi nui,
Ros Rice, Executive Officer.
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Introducing Neighbourly Natters—short, informal virtual catch-ups designed to help Members meet each other, share what they’re working on, and start conversations that could lead to collaboration.
Kia ora koutou, One of the greatest strengths of our sector is our willingness to come together, share knowledge, and lift each other up. Here at good ol’ CNA, we know from experience that strong relationships with our members help us grow and strengthen our own work. And we see our members doing the same with the networks and communities they support. We’re a network that builds capacity by engaging deeply with you—our members. Whether through our 50th Anniversary Hui, regular updates, or one-on-one kōrero, your insights help shape our direction, inform our advocacy, and refine the resources we provide. It’s through this two-way relationship that we grow stronger as an organisation—and the same holds true for you and your own networks. It’s why we bring everyone together every two years—to connect face to face, share lessons, and learn from one another. When you hear how another group has tackled leadership development or improved their financial systems, you gain ideas and inspiration to take home. And when you share your own success, you spark growth in others. From supporting better governance through our Tick for Governance Course (over 900 satisfied customers!) and strategic planning, to helping organisations improve fundraising, engaging with Banks, Select Committees, and collaboration—we all grow by reaching out and working together. CNA does this with our members, and our members do it with theirs. The ripple effect is powerful. Your network is so much more than an email list—it’s a community of experience, support, and strength. Let’s keep learning, building, and growing together. Here are 4 action points for to better engage with their members: Yell it to the Rooftops: Through newsletters and social media make sure to highlight member successes, share relevant news, and provide opportunities for feedback. Add this positivity to inspire others Throw a Party: Even if it’s a cuppa and a bikkie, these allow members to keep relationships, share knowledge, and collaborate in real-time in an easy atmosphere – we don’t’ have to be on the treadmill all the time. We are allowed to enjoy ourselves. Pick up the phone: Sometimes it’s great to get a call that’s not about an issue. Just to say ‘hello’, ‘I’m thinking of you’, ‘what’s on your mind?’. These strengthen our relationships and keep us in mind of each other, which may mean reminding each other of what we can support each other in. Share the aroha: Create spaces (online or in-person) where members can exchange ideas and experiences. When someone learns a new strategy or approach, share it widely to inspire innovation and growth across your network. Why reinvent the wheel? Take that idea and adapt it to your own organisation. These are just a few ways to increase your capacity, to deepen relationships, and to help each other upwards. Forward, Stronger! Patrick Davies Membership Engagement Officer
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