The International Partnerships Programme (IPP) is a pioneering UK Sport initiative that helps UK National Governing Bodies (NGBs) build closer strategic relations with international and national federations around the world through collaborative partnerships and projects.
This work ensures that the UK develops relations that enhance its profile and sporting objectives internationally, whilst contributing meaningfully to the development of international sport.
Projects range from small bilateral exchanges between NGBs and sports federations around the world, to multi-country sport development initiatives which are directly linked to major sporting events hosted in the UK, including the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and the Rugby League World Cup 2021.
Our model builds on learning from the International Inspiration Programme, London 2012’s international legacy, which reached more than 26 million children worldwide through sport and was delivered by UK Sport in partnership with the British Council and UNICEF.
IPPs are an integral part of NGBs’ international relations strategies and are normally co-designed by the NGB, their international federation and the project’s national federation partners in other countries. UK Sport’s International Relations Advisors provide technical support throughout the planning, implementation and evaluation of each project.
While each initiative is bespoke to the specific needs of the sport and partners, all target outcomes in the following three areas:
- Strategic Relations: How will the IPP help the NGB strengthen its relationship with its respective IF and other member federations?
- Sport Governance: How will the IPP help to strengthen the governance of the sport internationally?
- Sport Development: How will the IPP help strengthen and promote the growth of the sport globally?
Activities may include coach or technical official training courses, athlete training sessions, knowledge exchanges, strategic planning or governance development activities, leadership training, safeguarding education or provision of equipment or other resources.
Our International Partnerships Programme booklet provides more information on the benefits and support that NGBs and IFs can receive from our International Partnerships Programme.