Few businesses have every capability they need to grow. The ones that move fastest tend to be very good at finding, and keeping, the right partners.
Partner for capability, not for logos
A well-known name is no substitute for a real fit. Be specific about the gap you are trying to close: access to a market, a technology, a pool of talent or capital. Then look for the partner who closes it, whether or not they are the most famous option.
Align incentives from the start
Partnerships fail most often when the two sides want different things and discover it late. Agree early on what success looks like, how value is shared and how decisions are made, then write it down in plain language.
Be the partner you would want
Be reliable, be transparent and be generous with credit. The reputation you build as a partner is an asset that opens the next door.
And know when to walk away. A partnership that no longer serves both parties is better ended well than endured badly.