Assessing Organizational Capacity and Sustainability of a Partnership: the Future of CERIS

This case study explores the sustainability and continuation of a centre of research and knowledge transfer around issues related to immigration and settlement. It discusses the institutional context of CERIS and the various policy and practice relevant uses of academic research. It draws on literature and theory about organizational capacity in nonprofit organizations and academic partnerships. The case assesses whether CERIS, has the capacity to renew and continue functioning beyond its funding mandate. Data was primarily collected from in-depth interviews with key stakeholders. The results of this paper indicate both opportunities and challenges for a renewed CERIS-like organization to continue functioning in the environment. The study has implications generally for the sustainability of collaborative partnerships.