The Key Partnerships Building Block describes the network of suppliers and partners that make the business model work Companies forge partnerships for many reasons, and partnerships are becoming a cornerstone of many business models. Companies create alliances to optimize their business models, reduce risk, or acquire resources. We can distinguish between four diΩerent types of partnerships: 1. Strategic alliances between non-competitors 2. Coopetition: strategic partnerships between competitors 3. Joint ventures to develop new businesses 4. Buyer-supplier relationships to assure reliable supplies Key Partnerships 1. Strategic alliances between non-competitors 2. Coopetition: strategic partnerships between competitors 3. Joint ventures to develop new businesses 4. Buyer-supplier relationships to assure reliable supplies KP 8 bmgen_final.indd 38 6/15/10 5:32 PM