Partnerships Should Wait ⏸️ (0-15/40)

Whether you're exploring partnerships or currently in one that's struggling, your score shows you need to focus on internal stability first.

Why This Matters

Partnerships require organizational capacity that goes beyond day-to-day operations. Attempting collaboration without strong foundations typically leads to:

• Partnerships that feel like managing anxiety rather than creating impact

• Damaged relationships when you can't follow through on commitments

• Resources diverted from the core mission work you need to prioritize

The Strategic Move: Focus on Core Mission

Focus exclusively on your core mission for the next 12-18 months. Build operational stability, strengthen internal capacity, and establish a solid foundation. Partnership opportunities will still exist when you're ready.

If partnership feels urgent…

• Sometimes external pressure (funders, community expectations) pushes organizations toward partnership before they're ready. If this is your situation, consider:

• Being transparent with potential partners about your capacity constraints

• Participating lightly in networks rather than formal coalitions

• Saying no strategically to protect your organization's sustainability

• Advocating with funders for support that matches your current capacity

If you're already in a partnership…

This assessment suggests it may be time to step back, focus on your own organization's capacity, and renegotiate the level of commitment you can realistically sustain. Honest conversation with partners about your constraints is better than continuing to struggle.

What to Focus On

Rather than partnership development, invest in:

• Stabilizing funding and operations

• Strategic planning

• Board development

• Staff capacity and systems

• Organizational infrastructure

Being honest about your capacity is a sign of strong leadership. Focus on building sustainability first—partnership can wait.

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