Partnership & Collaboration
Not BEM-led? Partnerships with BEM-led organisations are welcomed and encouraged.
What makes a strong partnership?
The Pathway Fund recognises that some organisations with strong intermediary capabilities may not independently meet the BEM-led criterion.
We encourage these organisations to form partnerships that prioritise lived experience and share decision making power equitably.
Below is an outline of the components of what a strong partnership looks like:
Complementary strengths
Partners contribute distinct skills, expertise, and resources that, when combined, enhance the overall quality and impact of the proposal creating a more robust and compelling offer than any single organisation could achieve independently..
Shared power
Decision-making authority is distributed fairly across all partners, ensuring that no single organisation particularly a non-BEM-led partner holds disproportionate control. Instead, governance structures and processes are designed to enable meaningful, balanced participation from all parties.
Centred lived experience
The partnership is intentionally designed so that the voices, insights, and priorities of BEM communities are not only included but actively shape and guide the programme’s direction, ensuring that lived experience remains central to decision making and delivery.
Clear governance
Roles, responsibilities, and lines of accountability are explicitly defined and agreed between partners, with transparent structures in place to support effective coordination, decision making, and oversight throughout the partnership.
Looking for partners?
Contact the programme team at impact@pathwayfund.org.uk. We may be able to help connect you with potential partners in your region.