The Partnership Forum Program is guided by 5 Critical Factors:

Commitment – It is essential that every member be committed to the Forum in order to create the type of atmosphere necessary for success. Members who place a high priority on the Forum arrive on time, are fully attentive and respectful of other members, participate with vigor, stay until the conclusion of the meeting, and arrange their busy calendars with the Forum in mind. Attendance at the monthly meetings is mandatory. Unexcused absences are grounds for expulsion from the program.

Confidentiality – Participants must have total certainty that matters discussed will remain confidential. It is essential for the Forum that members of the group do not breach confidentiality – this creates the ideal environment for sharing and learning. A breach in confidentiality will be treated as a resignation from the Program.

Leadership – A concerned, committed, and experienced Mentor is vital to the success of Partnership Forum. The Mentor serves as a strong leader and emphasizes that leadership is shared across the group. Each member is responsible for the success of the Forum.

Structure – Each Partnership Forum group consists of  members led by one Mentor and two Young Leader co-chairs, serving in an assisting capacity. The program runs for one year and the meetings are monthly. Meetings include roundtable discussions, case studies, social events, project tours, guest speakers, or anything else mutually agreed upon to further the relationship among the group. To guarantee a true ULI experience, assignment of participants follows the method used for Product Councils, ensuring a cross-section of professional backgrounds in every group.

Culture – Partnership Forums mirror the cultural norms of ULI, such as openly sharing mistakes made and lessons learned. Partnership Forum allows Young Leaders to be introduced to the culture of ULI and helps set them up for a long commitment to the organization.

Entrance into the Partnership Forum program follows a two-step process. All applicants should be active ULI members under the age of 35. First, submit an electronic application detailing your professional background, areas of interest and how your values align with the ULI mission. Once applications have been reviewed, qualified applicants will receiving an invitation to formally join the program, along with a group assignment.