A business partnership proposal should help the recipient understand the opportunity and decide whether a conversation would be useful. It does not need to settle every commercial or legal detail at the first stage. Start with a clear purpose, explain the proposed contribution from each side, and identify the questions that need to be explored together.

Explain the opportunity in a short opening

Describe the business or project, the problem being addressed, and why you are approaching this particular organisation. Give enough context for a reader who has not met you. Avoid relying on broad claims about growth or shared ambition without explaining the actual opportunity.

Distinguish established information from assumptions or ideas still under development. Where you include evidence, make its source and relevance clear. A proposal is easier to assess when the reader can see what is known and what needs further work.

Describe the contribution expected from each side

Explain what you can contribute and what support you are seeking. The contribution might involve capabilities, operational work, introductions, resources, or another clearly described role. Be specific enough to start a discussion without implying that the recipient has agreed.

Identify the people who would be involved in an initial conversation and who can make decisions on your side. This helps the recipient route the enquiry to the relevant team rather than forwarding a general request without context.

Include the information needed for an initial assessment

A concise proposal can use the following structure. Attach only the supporting material needed to explain the opportunity, and share confidential information through an appropriate agreed channel.

  • A short introduction to the business and the person making contact.
  • The opportunity, intended audience, and proposed objective.
  • The contribution you offer and the contribution you are seeking.
  • Key assumptions, dependencies, and questions still to resolve.
  • The proposed first step, relevant timing, and contact details.

Keep the first step practical and proportionate

Suggest a focused discussion with a short agenda. Explain what you would like both sides to understand by the end of that meeting. A clear next step is easier to respond to than an open-ended request to explore every possible form of cooperation.

If the conversation develops, responsibilities, decision-making, confidentiality, and any binding terms need appropriate review and agreement. An introductory proposal should not be treated as a replacement for that work.

Make follow-up easy to understand

Finish with a clear contact route and identify any material you can provide if requested. After a discussion, summarise the points considered, unanswered questions, and actions each side has actually agreed to take.

If you would like to approach ASZ about a potential partnership, include the purpose of the proposal and the group capability you believe is relevant. The team can then direct the enquiry to the appropriate business and identify a useful next conversation.