In China, a global company faced the threat of municipal water supply restrictions. This concern was a major factor in planned business expansion in water stressed regions. Recognizing that resolution was beyond the mandate and capability of the company, a partnership was formed between the company, the UN, international and local NGOs and national and local Chinese government agencies. The partnership improves local management of water resources while building relationships of trust. It will provide the company with a seat at the negotiating table when decisions about water supply are made.