A Multiple Case Studies Review of Collaboration in Rural Nonprofits

This multiple case studies review of rural nonprofit collaboration explored themes related to the research problem of limited collaborative practice and outcomes in rural nonprofits. The research used a multiple case studies approach to examine current practices, barriers to collaboration, and identify best practices. Themes in existing literature on nonprofit collaborative practices and rural settings were examined to develop a conceptual framework of themes that would be explored in the research. Through the data collection and analysis process, several themes emerged. Most of the themes significantly aligned to the literature, while further developing understanding specific to the rural context of collaborative practice. Significant themes developed included the importance of leadership in rural collaborative practice, the relative lack of human capital, and practices that enhance collaborative capacity. These themes were discovered in the literature, but further expanded upon for application to rural settings. Areas where the research diverged from the literature included issues surrounding dispositions towards collaboration in rural contexts. Although the research uncovered specific struggles to collaborative practice, it also developed themes emphasizing the power of community involvement and leveraging of networks in rural areas. The outcomes of the research allow for future study of deeper themes in rural collaborative practice. Recommendations for business application include an overview of major themes, assessment opportunities, and suggestions for developing strategic plans to implement characteristics that facilitate greater collaboration.