How cross-sector collaboration can create lasting change 

The challenges facing our communities, whether in workforce development, health care, or social services, are too big for any one sector to solve alone. Businesses have resources and influence. Nonprofits have deep community ties and expertise. Government has the scale and policy tools to make change sustainable. When all three sectors work together, the impact is transformative. Moreover, businesses, nonprofits, and government each benefit. The most effective corporate social responsibility efforts are built on real partnerships with nonprofits and supported by government policies that allow these collaborations to thrive. 

As president and CEO of Easterseals, I’ve seen the power of cross-sector collaboration firsthand. 

Doing good is good business 

Research consistently shows that brands that prioritize social good grow faster, attract top talent, and build stronger reputations. A 2023 survey found that 76% of employees prefer to work for companies making a positive impact. Among millennials, 86% said they would consider a pay cut to work for a company that aligns with their values. More than half of Gen Z workers research a company’s environmental and social policies before accepting a job, and many have turned down opportunities because of a misalignment in values. Similarly, a majority of consumers expect brands to take a stand on social issues, and many are willing to switch to companies that prioritize ethical practices.  

That means for businesses, building long-term partnerships with nonprofits is an investment not only in their communities but also in their success. 

Corporate social responsibility strengthens nonprofits and communities 

Nonprofits understand the needs of their communities in ways that businesses and policy makers often cannot. They provide direct services and develop innovative solutions to social challenges. But they need corporate and government support to scale their impact. 

Through a network of affiliates, Easterseals provides disability and community services across the country, from early childhood education to job training for veterans. For decades, strong partnerships with companies have helped make that work possible. For example, Easterseals has built a 45-year relationship with CENTURY 21, leveraging their global network of affiliated real estate brokers and agents to raise millions of dollars for community-based services supporting people with disabilities. In 2024, the company raised more than $2.6 million for Easterseals, bringing their total support since 1979 to $141 million. This kind of long-term commitment makes a real difference, not just for a nonprofit, but for the communities it serves. 

Public-private partnerships can support sustainable impact 

Public-private partnerships can play a critical role in making sure these efforts don’t just benefit a few communities but become scalable, lasting solutions.  

Take workforce development. Businesses need skilled workers. Nonprofits provide training and support, like Easterseals’ job training programs for people with disabilities and our Senior Community Service Employment Program Government programs such as the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act create the funding and infrastructure needed to bring these efforts to scale by allocating federal grants to state and local workforce boards, which then direct resources to tailored training services. When there is cross-sector collaboration, more people gain access to stable jobs, companies strengthen their workforce, and communities become more economically resilient. 

Similarly, in health care, nonprofits provide community-based outreach and support services, businesses drive innovation through technology and investment, and governments offer policy frameworks and public health funding.  

How businesses, nonprofits, and government can build a stronger future 

If you’re a business leader, consider going beyond one-time donations. Forming a long-term commitment to a nonprofit partner that aligns with your company’s mission will help both organizations and the broader community. Encourage employees to get involved through volunteering or matched donations. Look for ways to work alongside government agencies to expand your impact.  

Nonprofits seeking cross-sector collaboration by partnering with corporations or engage in public-private partnerships should focus on building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. Start by identifying corporate partners that align with your mission and values, ensuring that your goals match theirs. By offering structured opportunities for involvement—such as annual fundraising campaigns or employee engagement programs—nonprofits can make it easy for corporations to contribute meaningfully, fostering a lasting and impactful partnership. 

For policy makers, fostering public-private partnerships can be a valuable opportunity to scale the efforts businesses and nonprofits are already making to drive change in communities across the country. These partnerships can leverage the unique strengths of both sectors: Businesses bring innovation and resources, while nonprofits offer deep community engagement, local expertise, and a strong social mission. By supporting these collaborations, policy makers can help amplify their impact, ensuring that resources are efficiently utilized and that solutions reach those most in need. 

The problems we face are complex, but the solution is clear: cross-sector collaboration. By working together, businesses, nonprofits, and governments can create stronger communities, stronger economies, and a stronger future for everyone. 

Photo credit: Moyo Studio via Getty Images