From information-sharing to collaboration: how structured networks support professional practice in zoos and aquariums

Summary This study examines the Advancing Conservation through Empathy for Wildlife™ (ACE for Wildlife™) Network, a collaborative professional network that draws on elements of the collective impact model to foster empathy for wildlife and advance conservation goals. Using a mixed-methods case study design, including social network analysis and qualitative interviews, we examine how the Network’s structured design and facilitation supported information-sharing and collaboration among participating zoos and aquariums. The results demonstrate that information-sharing served as a critical foundation for collaboration, with participants forming new partnerships and leveraging shared resources. The study highlights the roles of centralized backbone coordination and bridging individuals in supporting network connectivity, shared learning and collaboration. We provide insights into how intentionally designed professional networks can strengthen practice within the zoo and aquarium field and contribute to understanding how collaboration can be supported in other sectors working towards shared environmental or learning goals.