Starting a Cooperative
A cooperative is a business democratically governed by its members who have committed to its success. A cooperative requires more steps than a regular business. The following key cooperative development information and resources will guide you in how to start and grow your cooperative.
- Types of Cooperatives
- Cooperative Development Curriculum
- 8 Steps to Build A Cooperative (PDF)
- The Cooperatives Act
- Co-op model by-laws and templates
- Cooperative By-Law Reference Guide
- Reserve your co-op name and register your co-op with the Companies Office
- Register your co-op with the Financial Institutions Regulation Branch to become a Security Issuer
Several organizations support cooperative development and provide a wide range of resources and business supports. Build your network and become part of a growing cooperative community by reaching out to these organizations.
- Manitoba Cooperatives Association
- Conseil de Développement Économique des Municipalités
- The Canadian CED network
- International Cooperatives Alliance
- Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada
- Canadian Worker Cooperative Federation
- Coop Zone Developers' Network
- Cooperative Housing Federation of Canada
- The Co-op Creator Toolkit and Business Resource
