What is a Public-Private Partnership?

Public-private partnerships are defined broadly as:

A partnership that exists when the public sector (federal, state, and/or local officials or agencies) joins with the private sector (families, employers, philanthropy, media, civic groups, and/or service providers to attain a shared goal.

Although each is unique, partnerships share some characteristics:

They bring together public and private sector partners;

Partners work together toward shared goals or objectives;

Each partner contributes time, money, expertise, or other resources; and

Decision-making and management responsibilities are shared among the partners.