ICRISAT cannot, and does not, work alone. The Institute's operations are conducted in close collaboration with a range of partners -- NARS are ICRISAT’s most immediate and intimate partners. In coordination with NARS, ICRISAT fosters its relationships with NGOs, farmers' organizations, and private sector partners. Sister CGIAR Centers, advanced research institutions, and other key partners. Donors are also crucial partners who help define priorities, and provide the means to address them.

Four interrelated types of partnership are prominent:

• Network support and participation. Networks provide a channel for NARS to pool their talents and resources for mutual benefit, and an efficient vehicle for technology sharing. ICRISAT acts as a catalyst and contributor of strategic inputs, such as enhanced germplasm, information, and training.

• Joint research projects to tackle specific problems and development objectives. Examples include joint missions to rescue endangered landraces, watershed-based research, and impact assessment. National partners are increasingly playing a leading role in the applied aspects of these projects.

• Leveraging the emerging technologies of the developed world, to benefit those in the developing world. ICRISAT acts as a catalyst, bridge, and scientific contributor -- helping advanced research institutions adapt and deliver their novel techniques and information to solve the pressing SAT problems.
• Professional development of national scientists to suit specific needs: research fellowships, specialized training courses, and the dissemination of information.