FORMATION OF STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP MECHANISM IN BUSINESS: THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL FOCUS

The article is devoted to the problem of strategic partnership in business through theoretical and practical focus. Theoretical and methodological analysis of the essential definition of the concepts of «strategic partnership» and «strategic alliance» in the works of foreign and domestic scientists. The author's definition of the concept of strategic partnership, which, unlike existing ones, is presented as one of the most flexible organizational forms of integration of businesses (enterprises), which is endowed with a number of essential distinguishing features business structures with strategic perspectives and goals. The principles of integration aspirations of business structures, which are based on the multifactorial nature of integration processes, which is reduced to the use of the benefits of integration through interconnectedness, interdependence and mutual benefit, are highlighted. The main goals of the strategic partnership are highlighted, the key ones being: avoidance of sanctions, tax liability, quotas; impact on the nature of competition in the industry; access to new markets through the partner's sales network; reduction of costs and risks of research and development; use of highly qualified research and engineering potential of contractors; main‑ taining the independence of the organization, etc. The most common types of strategic partnerships are considered, including strategic marketing, strategic supply chain partnerships, strategic integration partnerships, strategic technology partnerships, and strategic financial partnerships. Substantiated advantages (business incentives). The risk factors that must be taken into account before signing the agreement, both organizational and legal, and personal in relation to potential counterparties. The necessity of forming a partnership agreement and the list of basic conditions to be described in the partnership agreement are substantiated. A number of basic rules (principles) have been established, which are the key to an honest and fruitful strategic partnership in business. Expert assessment of practitioners on the decisive role of strategic partnership in effective business activities is given. The direction of further research is outlined, which can be reduced to the study of business cooperation strategies and features of their implementation in domestic enterprises.