Uncovering local communities’ motivational factors to partner with a nonprofit for social impact: A mixed-methods approach

Abstract Although cross-sector partnerships are increasingly recognized as essential to creating social impact and local communities are acknowledged as key potential partners, inter-organizational relationships for social impact from the perspective of local communities have been overlooked. This article aims to contribute to closing this research gap by identifying the motivational factors that can foster an active collaboration of local communities with a nonprofit for social impact. Specifically, we focus on the relationships between 45 local communities and the PN-ANMI Management Committee in Bolivia. First, we conduct a qualitative study consisting of 50 interviews with local community representatives and the PN-ANMI Management Committee members. We then perform a quantitative study of a sample of 799 community members to validate the findings from the qualitative analysis. This mixed-methods approach reveals that environmental preservation, community well-being, self-esteem, and organizational effectiveness are relevant factors influencing local communities’ willingness to enter into partnerships for social impact.