Co-operatives First

About

Co-operatives First is a non-profit business development organization established in 2016. It is funded by Federated Co-operatives Limited and the Co-operative Retailing System. The organization aims to support individuals and groups in starting co-operatives in rural and Indigenous communities across Western Canada. It focuses on promoting the co-operative business model, which can be applied in various sectors, including childcare, retail, consulting, and healthcare. The organization provides free guidance, resources, and support for co-op startups. Services include tools, information, business coaching, incorporation assistance, and access to online courses and webinars. Co-operatives First emphasizes community growth and aims to reduce barriers to co-op formation by offering practical, user-friendly resources. Testimonials from co-op founders highlight the team's expertise and effectiveness in simplifying the startup process for new co-operatives.