Associations can help members interact and learn about each other's businesses. They can also coordinate information sessions or seminars. Tim Page, president of the Association of Consulting Engineers, says groups need to give members what they want and need.
Business networks can offer shared risks, shared costs and improved access to capital.
There are different reasons to start a business partnership. You might want to share certain business functions such as administration, says Page. Or, you might be looking to fill a gap you have in your business. People with authority to decide have to be at meetings. You can't have people running back to get approval on new issues that come up.