The term "business partners" refers to two or more individuals, companies or organizations that have joined together in a commercial venture. They share resources and responsibilities to achieve common goals related to business activities such as production, distribution, marketing, and management of their products/services. The relationship between the partners can vary from being informal to formal, depending on the terms agreed upon by both parties in a written agreement or contract. In general, having business partners allows for increased opportunities, resources, and capabilities that would not be possible for an individual or small company to achieve alone.