Guidance for Every Cooperative Stage
We work with cooperative organizers, members, and managers across sectors and at every stage in the business development process.
Our staff understands the unique potential of cooperatives to create prosperous communities – from initial visioning to sustainable growth, we provide people-centered support to ensure your cooperative thrives throughout its entire lifecycle.
Cooperative Formation and Start-Up
We guide organizers through the foundational steps of defining a vision, developing a viable model, and launching the business. During startup, we provide education, training, and facilitation to ensure that board members and managers are supported and successful in their roles.
Emerging and Established Cooperatives
We assist emerging cooperatives with membership drives, capital campaigns, and board development. As businesses evolve, we help them plan for sustainable growth, navigate leadership transitions, and form cooperative networks.
Conversion to Cooperative Ownership
We facilitate cooperative conversions so that outgoing owners can leave their business in the hands of the people who know it best. Transitioning to cooperative ownership is a proven strategy for preserving jobs, retaining essential services, and building community wealth.
Cooperative Development Toolbox
Our team provides a complete set of cooperative development services to support sustainable enterprises that meet the needs of their members:
Group Facilitation
We facilitate meetings, planning retreats, and communities of practice for cooperative board members, managers, and steering committees.
Organizational Documents
We guide cooperative organizers through the development of articles, bylaws, stock offerings, and membership agreements.
Business Planning
We develop business plans that balance for-profit imperatives with for-purpose priorities to achieve sustainable growth and social impact.
Capitalization Strategies
We help cooperatives understand their financing options and create capital plans that support their goals for growth.
Board Governance
We provide group workshops and one-on-one coaching to help cooperative board members work together more effectively.
Specialized Services
We make referrals to accounting, human resources, and legal experts with experience serving cooperative businesses.
Strategic Planning
We work with leaders in cooperatives to develop long-range plans to grow sustainably, manage risk, and build better member relations.
Accessible Financing
Our Business Development team provides financing packages customized for cooperatives and hands-on assistance to prepare you to apply.
Discover More
Meet the Team
Charlie Michel
Center Director
Blake Lineweaver
Program Manager
Ready to Get Started?
Fill out the form below to get in touch with our cooperative development team.