How to find the right partners for a European project
A strong partnership starts with a shared problem and complementary capabilities, not a long mailing list. Use this workflow before inviting an organization into a proposal. It is editorial guidance, not a guarantee of eligibility or funding.
1. Define the work before searching for names
Write a short concept: the problem, the people affected, the intended change and the activities you can realistically deliver. If you have identified a call, read its current partnership requirements first.
- Who will use the results?
- Which skills and local networks are missing?
- What specific work could a new partner own?
2. Build a role-based shortlist
Search for capabilities such as community outreach, evaluation or accessible learning design. Record one public example of relevant work for each organization. Being listed in a directory does not establish legal status, call eligibility or willingness to participate.
Use the platform's partner directory as a starting point, then confirm current information with the organization and the official call documentation.
3. Send a specific invitation
Explain why you contacted this organization, what contribution you propose and what you need to learn next. Share only a non-confidential concept initially. Ask permission before circulating personal contact details.
Subject: Exploring a partner role in community digital skills
We are developing a concept for [target group] in [location]. Your public work on [example] appears relevant to [task]. Would you be open to a short discussion about objectives, capacity and potential fit? The call and partner eligibility still need confirmation.
4. Check fit together
Discuss decision-making, staff capacity, language needs, budget responsibilities, reporting and ownership of results. Confirm who can commit the organization. A promising conversation is not a partnership agreement.
- Agree on a concrete next action and owner.
- Check every partner against the specific call rules.
- Record unresolved risks before assigning proposal tasks.
Sources and further reading
Practical guides