Launched in October 2003, the International Partners (iPartners) programme is an IE Singapore initiative to catalyse the formation of international alliances between Singapore-based companies. By banding together while abroad, our companies can combine their resources, complement their product offerings, achieve economies of scale, reduce time-to-market and pursue bigger projects; thus sharpening their competitiveness and maximising the chances of success. To promote such win-win partnerships between Singapore-based companies, the iPartners programme facilitates and supports the formation, developmental and go-to-market phases of the alliances.

Brief Description of an iPartners Project

An iPartners alliance consists of one Anchor Company and several Alliance Partners. The companies in the alliance will formulate an alliance business plan and contribute resources and management support to execute the plan. An iPartners Business Development Manager will champion the goals of the alliance and lead in the execution of the alliance business plan.

Role of Anchor Company

The Anchor Company will spearhead the alliance by providing one or more of the following value-add to the Alliance Partners:

a. Greater access to the overseas market or a different segment of the overseas market through its value proposition including brand recognition, track record, market insights, etc;
b. Adapt existing products or services for overseas markets; and
c. Develop capabilities to penetrate the overseas market including the upgrading of existing technology / technological capabilities.

Role of Alliance Partner

The Alliance Partner must be able to complement the Anchor Company in this project and provide value proposition to the project. The Alliance Partner must sell its products or services in the overseas market(s) targeted by this alliance.

Role of iPartners Business Development Manager

iPartners Business Development Manager's responsibilities include:

a. To champion the goals of the alliance, to lead in the execution of the alliance business plan and to ensure that the alliance's targets and objectives are met;
b. To identify, pursue and develop overseas business opportunities and markets for the alliance; and
c. To report the progress of the project.