Partnership logic vs instinct, re-thinking transparency and funding constraints
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BE IN MOTION
Welcome to Partnership Wednesday! Here are 3 ideas from me and 1 question for you to consider this week to create partnerships you never thought possible.
3 IDEAS FROM ME
I.
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) partnered with DEKA Research to create the LUKE Arm, a prosthetic so advanced it mimics natural movement and touch. The DoD demanded human-like dexterity which forced DEKA to create breakthrough solutions. Initially designed for veterans, it’s now transforming civilian lives. This public-private partnership combined government funding with private innovation to solve a real-world problem.
Key Lesson: Don’t just fund innovation (a new prosthetic), fund constraints (the need for human-like dexterity).
II.
There are those in partnerships who expect transparency from day one and those who know it’s unrealistic and build it instead.
Transparency isn’t a right. It doesn’t appear magically. The key is to become valuable to your partner so transparency flows naturally.
III.
Should I use instinct or logic when forming a new business partnership? I was asked this question from the crowd this week. Here’s my answer:
Not all partnerships rely on logic. Sometimes, instinct plays the bigger role.
You won’t always have perfect data or a crystal-clear roadmap.
In some partnerships, gut feel and intuition take the lead.
This happens when:
• You sense alignment but can’t fully quantify it.
• There’s mutual trust, even if the terms feel untested.
• The opportunity is too unique to measure conventionally.
Instinct doesn’t replace due diligence, but it can guide you when certainty is out of reach.
The key?
Balance instinct with clear communication and a willingness to course-correct.
Partnerships built on instinct often lead to unexpected innovation—but only if both sides trust the process.
Next time your gut says “yes,” ask yourself: What small step can we take to test this instinct before committing fully?
1 QUESTION FOR YOU
What niggling issue or doubt is concerning you about one of your partnerships?
PARTNERSHIP+ MOMENT
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Until next Wednesday,
Phil Hayes-St Clair - Partnership Expert & Coach
When you're ready, there are three ways I can help you:
1. Partnership Essentials: A self-paced, practical online course for entrepreneurs and small business owners. In just 30 days, you'll build a partnership operating system that turns conversations into contracts.
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3. Performance Partnerships: A coaching program designed for organisations aiming for sustainable, meaningful growth. The goal: Achieve double-digit growth through strategic partnerships in 12 months—without overwhelming your team.
Looking for something different? Send me an email.
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