Coop: Difference between revisions

Since 1882, [http://store.thecoop.com/coopstore/estore_aboutus.jsp Harvard and MIT have had their Coop]. In the 70's, we had food co-ops (they're still around you know).  Now the worker collaborative has emerged as the new co-operative for the new century.

International Cooperative Alliance Statement on the Cooperative Identity

<li> Voluntary and Open Membership <br />

 

<li> Member Economic Participation <br />

Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their co-operative. At least part of that capital is usually the common property of the co-operative. Members usually receive limited compensation, if any, on capital subscribed as a condition of membership. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing their co-operative, possibly by setting up reserves, part of which at least would be indivisible; benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the co-operative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership.

<li> Autonomy and Independence <br />

Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organisations controlled by their members. If they enter to agreements with other organisations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and maintain their co-operative autonomy.

<li> Education, Training and Information <br />

Co-operatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-operatives. They inform the general public - particularly young people and opinion leaders - about the nature and benefits of co-operation.

<li> Co-operation among Co-operatives <br />

Co-operatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.

[[File:WorkerCoops-PathwaysToScale.pdf]]