<br />Most nonprofit organizations have many existing commercial relationships with businesses as well as philanthropic and other alliances. Nonprofits purchase supplies, equipment, facilities, and utilities. They use professional services from banks, accountants, lawyers, insurance companies, and others. Nonprofits’ transactions with for-profit businesses can involve market rates or discounted fees, as well as donated goods, facilities, and services. <br /><br />Some businesses develop relationships with nonprofits because their employees volunteer with these nonprofits. Many nonprofits have a range of philanthropic relationships, in which they receive financial contributions from businesses through gifts and events, that are not perceived as strategic alliances. <br /><br />When nonprofits consider developing strategic alliances, their existing relationships with businesses can provide opportunities for expanding activities and mutual benefits. Therefore an inventory of your current relationships with businesses is an excellent way to begin identifying potential partners for strategic alliances.