What’s A Co-operative?

A Different Model for Business, Unlike Our Predatory Corporations, Shadow Banks and Secret Hedge Funds.

Co-ops are based on values not unlike those we subscribe to individually, including self-responsibility, democracy, equality, honesty and social responsibility.

In addition to these common values, seven basic principles serve as guidelines to provide a democratic structure for co-ops around the world. While adoption of these principles is not required, most co-ops choose to adopt them for their business.

The Seven Principles
Voluntary and open membership
Democratic member control
Member economic participation
Autonomy and independence
Education, training and information
Cooperation among cooperatives
Concern for community

Co-ops come in all forms and sizes. They are generally categorized by the industry they operate in, known as the co-op’s sector, and the structure of their membership, known as the co-op’s type. In the United States alone, there are more than 29,000 co-ops, representing over $3 trillion in assets, and generating over $500 billion in revenue and $25 billion in wages. For information on co-op sectors, types, economic impact, and more, visit the National Cooperative Business Association’s website.