A capacity building program to promote CBPR partnerships between academic researchers and community members

Introduction: Community-based participatory research (CBPR) adds community perspectives to research and aids translational research aims. There is a need for increased capacity in CBPR but few models exist for how to support the development of community/university partnerships. Objective: Evaluate an approach to promote nascent CBPR partnerships. Methods: Design was a mixed-methods evaluation using interviews, process notes, and open- and close-ended survey questions. We trained 10 community scholars, matched them with prepared researchers to form seven partnerships, and supported their developing partnerships. Sequential mixed-methods analysis assessed research and partnership processes and identified integrated themes. Results: Four of seven partnerships were funded within 15 months; all self-reported their partnerships as successful. Themes were: (1) motivators contributed to partnership development and resiliency; (2) partners took on responsibilities that used individuals' strengths; (3) partners grappled with communication, decision making, and power dynamics; and (4) community-university infrastructure was essential to partnership development. Conclusions: This program for developing nascent partnerships between academicians and community members may guide others in increasing capacity for CBPR.