10 Biggest Mistakes in Private Sector Engagement
A comprehensive checklist of what to avoid in partnerships, based on real case studies from development programs.
The Private Sector Engagement System™ helps development programs design, manage, and scale partnerships that go beyond tick-box collaboration and deliver real market impact.
Development programs know they need to work with the private sector — but most don't know how.
Generic MOUs with No Follow-through
Signing impressive agreements that look good on paper but lack clear implementation frameworks, accountability measures, or practical next steps.
Poor Alignment Between Incentives
Partnerships where development goals and business objectives aren't properly aligned, leading to frustration and eventual withdrawal from both parties.
Partnerships That Collapse After Funding Ends
Collaborations that depend entirely on donor funding without building sustainable, self-reinforcing value propositions for continued engagement.
The Reality Check
Without the right structure and strategy, these "partnerships" become nothing more than joint press releases that deliver headlines instead of results.
This isn't another policy brief or academic tool. It's a practical, field-tested framework to build, structure, and scale partnerships across different sectors and geographies.
Deal Structuring Canvas
Making partnership terms clear, fair, and sustainable.
Co-Design Engagement Canvas
Creating solutions together for real ownership
Execution System Design Canvas
Operationalizing the partnership agreements effectively
Opportunity Mapping Canvas
Identify and prioritise the most strategic private sector opportunities
Partner Mapping & Selection Canvas
Choose the right private sector players based on alignment and feasibility.
Trust Building Canvas
Building deep, resilient trust throughout the journey
Value Proposition Crafting Canvas
Building an irresistible offer that speaks to business needs
Sustainability and Exit Strategies
Ensuring long-term survival beyond donor program
Growth & Scaling Mechanisms
Setting up successful partnerships to expand
With this system, your team will move from superficial agreements to partnerships that create real value for all parties.
Map the Right Partners
Identify and prioritize partners who align with your goals — and systematically avoid misaligned engagements that waste time and resources.
Build Deals with Clear Incentives
Structure partnerships with transparent commercial incentives that motivate sustained participation and measurable outcomes.
Create Trust and Commitment
Build credibility and mutual commitment from the first conversation through proven frameworks that demonstrate value upfront.
Shift from Transaction to Transformation
Move beyond one-off collaborations to create systemic change that benefits entire markets and communities.
Map the Right Partners
Identify and prioritize partners who align with your goals — and systematically avoid misaligned engagements that waste time and resources.
Leave Behind Lasting Partnerships
Create self-sustaining partnerships that continue delivering impact long after your program ends and funding transitions.
Get immediate access to practical resources that help you avoid common pitfalls and build stronger partnerships.
A comprehensive checklist of what to avoid in partnerships, based on real case studies from development programs.
Is your current partnership built for scale? Evaluate sustainability, alignment, and growth potential in 15 minutes.
Overview of all 9 canvases plus application guide with templates, checklists, and implementation prompts.
The Expert Positioning System helps you stop underselling and start attracting the opportunities you actually want.