Before engaging in a PPP, you need to have a clear understanding of the social problem you want to address and the goal you want to achieve. You also need to identify the stakeholders who are affected by or interested in the problem and the goal, and their roles and responsibilities. A problem and goal statement can help you communicate the value proposition of your PPP and guide your decision-making throughout the process.

2 Choose the right partner and model

Not all private sector entities are suitable or willing to partner with the public sector for social impact. You need to find a partner who shares your vision, values, and objectives, and who has the relevant expertise, resources, and networks. You also need to select a PPP model that fits your context and needs, such as service contracts, management contracts, leases, concessions, joint ventures, or hybrid models. Each model has different implications for risk allocation, revenue generation, performance measurement, and contract duration.

3 Establish a governance structure and a legal framework

A PPP requires a governance structure that defines the roles, responsibilities, and relationships of the partners and other stakeholders. A governance structure can include a steering committee, a project management team, a technical advisory group, and a stakeholder engagement mechanism. A legal framework is also essential to regulate the rights and obligations of the partners and to protect the public interest. A legal framework can include a contract, a memorandum of understanding, a partnership agreement, or a legislation.

5 Communicate and collaborate with stakeholders

A PPP involves multiple stakeholders who have different interests, expectations, and perspectives. You need to communicate and collaborate with them throughout the partnership lifecycle, from planning to implementation to evaluation. Communication and collaboration can help you build trust, transparency, and accountability, as well as foster innovation, learning, and adaptation. You can use various tools and methods to communicate and collaborate with stakeholders, such as newsletters, websites, social media, workshops, surveys, feedback mechanisms, and co-creation sessions.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?