Let’s Rethink Strategic Collaboration Part 1: Beyond Merger

When people hear “strategic collaboration,” they often picture either a complicated, messy merger or a short-term partnership. And sure, those are valid examples — but they’re just two of many ways nonprofits can work together to boost their impact.

In a previous post, we introduced La Piana Consulting’s Collaborative Map, which lays out a range of collaborative relationships — from quick, project-based partnerships to deeper, long-term integrations. In this piece and the interview linked below, we will focus on one specific type of partnership: the asset (or program) transfer.

What is an Asset Transfer?

Think of it as a handoff where one nonprofit transfers specific part(s) of its organization — like funding, program materials, staff, relationships, or intellectual property — to another. The key here is that it’s about sharing assets, not liabilities. It’s a relatively straightforward process: both organizations agree on what’s being transferred, when, and how. Then, they formalize it with a legal agreement that goes to each board for approval.

Why Consider It?

For the nonprofit doing the transferring, this can be a smart way to ensure that a valuable program or asset continues to thrive, especially if the organization is shifting focus or needs to free up resources. It’s a way to protect what is working without the receiving organization getting stretched beyond capacity or risking burnout. In some cases, it even gives the nonprofit time to wind down operations responsibly, knowing their key programs are in good hands.

For the receiving organization, it’s a chance to grow and deepen impact, without taking on the full weight of a merger. You get to choose the pieces that align with your mission and strategy, without inheriting liabilities or unnecessary baggage.

Things to Keep in Mind

Of course, even a relatively simple asset transfer can bring up big questions — about culture, staff capacity, reputation, and long-term sustainability. These are important conversations to have early and often. The good news? Compared to a full merger, an asset transfer can usually be planned and executed more quickly, which is especially helpful in today’s fast-changing political, social, and funding landscape.

If you want to hear how this works in real life, check out our conversation with Yolanda Coentro, President & CEO of the Institute for Nonprofit Practice in Boston. She shares her experience navigating an asset transfer and the impact it had on her organization.

Continue to listen to Part 2 here.