Require partnership structures for state grant eligibility. Applicants must demonstrate genuine collaboration, not symbolic partnerships.

Require formal collaboration for multi-partner projects. Partnerships must be demonstrated—not symbolic—before applying for funding.

Establish shared governance structures for coalitions. Develop conflict-resolution norms, shared agenda-setting, and equitable decision-making.

Misalignment of goals and timelines. Academic partners, local governments, Tribes, and CBOs often operate under different constraints that make collaboration difficult without intentional coordination.

Competition for limited funding undermines collaboration. Organizations may protect their own funding instead of building shared strategies.