Chapter 2: Developing Your Cooperative
IN THIS LESSON
Money can be one of the hardest conversations in a cooperative.
But we can put structures in place that make it easier to work through our collective feelings about money, where it comes from, and how it’s distributed.
How to fund your co-op
Grants
Local and federal programs sometimes provide grants to for-profit businesses. Worker self-directed non-profits will likely be funded with grants.
Loans
Like a traditional business, a cooperative can apply for a loan.
Crowdfunding
Cooperatives can work with community members to crowdfund their organization, offering financial equity or services in return.
Personal contributions
A single founder or a small group can contribute personal funds to start the organization.
Why will your idea succeed?
Download the worksheet and brainstorm with your community.