A compendium of joint initiatives put together by Metro Vancouver staff identified over 80 past and current joint projects between Metro Vancouver and UBC. Building upon the success of this relationship, in late 2014, senior staff from UBC and Metro Vancouver met to discuss the respective goals and needs of their organisations, as well as the range of opportunities for further collaboration. Through these discussions the concept of a ‘Strategic Collaboration Memorandum' arose and prompted staff from both organisations to work together on a model tliat would explore and expand upon opportunities for future partnerships. The MOU is a framework document within which the parties will identify and pursue joint initiatives.