Partners have their own structures and activities, but they share many important characteristics, including:
- a common vision of farmer empowerment and sustainable rural livelihoods;
- expertise in ecological agriculture, experiential learning, advocacy and project management;
- experience in conducting training and action research activities at the local, national and international level;
- collaborative relationships with a wide range of government agencies, NGOs and community groups.
Partners also participate in the implementation of regional activities of The Field Alliance, and act as hosts for regional advisers who are working on a full-time, consulting or voluntary basis. Consequently, the Field Alliance does not need to maintain a regional office.
Staff of the various Partner organizations have been working together for nearly a decade through the activities of the FAO Regional IPM Programme and recently under the Kemi (Sweden) support program “Towards the Non Toxic Environment”. Presently there are over 10 civil societies, academics, international and governmental organizations involved in the various programs. The Field Alliance will continue to increase the number of Partners over the years, while maintaining the strength of vision and expertise which characterizes the existing group. Organizations join The Field Alliance by signing a Memorandum of Partnership with the Board of Directors.