This is the 13989th most frequent Russian word.
объединяя
Uniting; combining.
The word 'объединяя' is used here as a gerund to indicate the process of uniting efforts while performing the main action (reaching the goal).
Объединяя усилия, мы быстрее достигнем цели.
By uniting efforts, we will reach the goal faster.
In this sentence, 'объединяя' is used to show the action of uniting groups as a simultaneous action while walking.
Он ходил по залу, объединяя группы для обсуждения.
He walked around the hall, uniting groups for discussion.
Here, 'объединяя' refers to the act of merging their talents, which contributes to the creation of the project.