In the co-operative sector, there’s no better way to harness our collective strength than by embracing Principle 6: Co-operation among Co-operatives. Often seen as one of the “feel-good” principles, Principle 6 is sometimes dismissed as merely inspirational rather than foundational. However, this perspective undervalues the immense benefits that come from the shared strength and collective influence of the co-operative sector.
The Value of Co-operation
Co-operation among co-ops is not just a lofty ideal; it’s a practical strategy that strengthens the co-operative movement. By fostering solidarity, mutual support, innovation, and collaboration, co-operatives can leverage their collective power to achieve more together than they could alone.
On a practical level, co-ops working together can pool resources to access better services, bulk purchasing discounts, and shared expertise, leading to cost savings and increased efficiency. On a broader scale, fostering relationships with other co-ops and with provincial and federal associations amplifies our voice in advocating for policies that benefit the co-operative sector and our communities.
Advocacy and Education
According to the Canadian Centre for the Study of Co-operatives’ report, Top Co-op Issues 2023, many co-op leaders feel that co-operatives are often ignored or excluded by policymakers, missing out on opportunities to achieve their policy objectives. This leads to poor outcomes for co-operatives, such as a lack of governmental support or funding, including access to grants.
The saying “A rising tide lifts all boats” perfectly captures the importance of solidarity and mutual support within the co-op sector. The success of both large and small co-operatives hinges on their collective efforts and shared goals. Larger co-operatives and credit unions play a vital role in supporting advocacy, co-operative education, and development, which in turn strengthens the entire sector.
Supporting New and Small Co-operatives
Advocacy and education are crucial for increasing awareness of the co-operative model’s impact and relevance among government bodies, economic developers, entrepreneurs, youth, members, and consumers. Supporting new co-operative start-ups is equally important for the sector’s growth and long-term success. These goals cannot be achieved without the backing of larger co-operatives, not only through financial support but also through active engagement within the sector.
Co-operatives are deeply rooted in their communities and address pressing issues like affordable housing, quality homecare and childcare, food insecurity, and access to essential services. While many larger co-ops may already have the capacity to deliver affordable services to those who need them, smaller co-ops often need support to reach their goals. Larger co-operatives can help by providing access to capital and other support mechanisms, such as promoting smaller co-ops to their members, using their services, providing grants or in-kind services, mentorship, and contributing to co-operative development funds designed to bolster economic development in their communities.
Fostering Mutually Beneficial Relationships
Co-operation among co-operatives means fostering mutually beneficial relationships between smaller and larger co-ops, much like the dynamic between co-ops and their members. Business-to-business partnerships should benefit both sides. While larger co-operatives and credit unions provide strength and credibility, community-based co-ops are essential in enhancing the well-being and vitality of their local areas.
Just as member engagement and participation are essential to the growth and sustainability of our own co-operative enterprises, engagement and participation in the broader co-operative sector are equally important. So, what does this look like?
Practical Steps for Co-operation
Support Your Associations: Provincial and national associations exist to serve you. They present a united front when dealing with governments and policymakers, ensuring that the interests of the co-operative sector are represented. Larger co-ops should support the work of these associations, which typically focus on government advocacy, co-operative development, awareness, and education. Smaller co-ops can benefit from joining associations to connect to a larger support network, access valuable resources, find B2B opportunities, and promote their co-op to a larger audience.
Foster Relationships: Regardless of your co-op’s size, industry, or membership, fostering relationships with other co-operatives—locally and nationally—can unlock a wealth of opportunities. By sharing resources, collaborating on initiatives, recruiting new members, or mentoring future co-op leaders, your co-op can thrive through the power of cooperation and collective action.
By embracing Principle 6 and working together, co-operatives can unlock their full potential and create a stronger, more resilient sector that benefits everyone. Let’s harness the power of co-operation and make a lasting impact on our communities and beyond.
Submitted by Michelle Christmann, Education Manager, OCA
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