You want to take a few days and really explore the landscape of potential partners. Be sure to evaluate similarities, differences, values, missions and of course try and gather as much information about their current financial status.

You'll want to consider things like:

• Is the business in good financial health?
  
• Is the business representative of a sector that is expanding or contracting?
  
• Does the business have core needs that a partnership with my organization will address?
  
• Does the business have a mission and values that are in line with my organization?
  
• Is the firm's business line (the way they make money) in conflict with the mission of my organization?
  
• What is the businesses' past hiring history with my organization's target population and are there any obstacles that are insurmountable?