This study surveyed 145 private sector organizations to identify factors that motivate business and non-profits to adopt measures for emergency preparedness and continuity of operations planning. Consistent with previous research and anecdotal evidence, it identified the size and capability of the organization and previous disaster experience as principal motivators. It further identified that participation in a collaborative partnership had as strong a correlation with motivation to prepare as did the other two factors. This finding points the way for further research into policies and initiatives that could have a positive impact on preparedness in the private sector with implications for building resilience at the community and regional levels.