A joint venture is in general a private Business partnership. This is where two or more independent companies usually come together and pursue a common goal. The partner companies can participate with different resources, for example with capital, know-how or contributions in kind.

There are the following types of joint ventures...

- Horizontal joint ventures (from the same industry)

- Vertical joint ventures (from various industries)

- Concentric joint ventures (from similar industries)

- Conglomerate joint ventures (no connection)

- Investments in companies or organizations