Resources

We all need resources. Explore resources on co-op associations, co-op support organizations, starting a co-op, converting an existing business, funding sources, and other orgs we like.

If you have a suggestion for a resource, send a message with the contact form.

If you’re new to co-ops, it’s important to know that Cooperative Businesses come in different varieties:

• Consumer-owned Cooperatives are owned by their customers. Many natural food co-ops, housing cooperatives, credit unions, and retail stores (like REI) are organized this way.
• Producer-owned Cooperatives are usually agriculture based businesses, owned by the farmers which supply raw materials to the Co-op. Many familiar brands are organized this way, such as Cabot Creamery and Ocean Spray.
• Worker-owned Cooperatives are owned by their employees
• Hybrid Cooperatives have combined membership categories. They maybe be owned by both the workers and consumers, for example, with board members representing each group.