Partnerships for development are spreading like wildfire – in rhetoric if not in reality. This report examines a set of partnerships in forestry – those between companies and communities – to see whether there is any substance beyond the hype. Some 57 examples in 23 countries are reviewed – from informal arrangements and social responsibility efforts to outgrower schemes and joint ventures.

Partnerships for development are spreading like wildfire – in rhetoric if not in reality. This report examines a set of partnerships in forestry – those between companies and communities – to see whether there is any substance beyond the hype. Some 57 examples in 23 countries are reviewed – from informal arrangements and social responsibility efforts to outgrower schemes and joint ventures. Few long-lived partnerships are found but both the numbers and experience of partnerships are growing. Whilst some so-called partnerships are thinly veiled rip-offs or bald attempts to spruce up company image, others have produced significant returns to both local livelihoods and company profits. The report draws out lessons from experience – and outlines a set of principles, success factors and next steps for developing partnerships that deliver better returns to both sides. These steps centre on getting governance frameworks right, developing brokering roles, and raising both the equity stakes and bargaining power of communities.