Co-operative Development
The traditional approach when starting a business has been to 'go it alone' and set up as a sole trader - with all the risks and problems this involves. An alternative is to 'go it together' and start a co-operative.
A co-operative is an easy way for two or more people to go into business together. The way co-operatives are set up reduces personal financial risk.
In a co-operative, everyone who comes to work for the business and remains with it is given a say in how the firm is run and a share in the profits and ownership. We can help you set up a new co-operative in any sector by providing:
- Tailored business counselling and advice
- Help with business planning
- Design of legal structures and documentation
- Assistance with accessing finance
- Helping with finding premises and equipment and identifying suppliers
- Information services
Existing Co-operatives
We can continue to support co-operatives and other employee owned businesses once they start trading, helping them to strengthen their business and achieve long-term survival.
Co-operatives are not left to sink or swim once they start trading. They are offered expert support as their businesses grow, enter new markets, experience difficulties or identify training needs.
Health checks can be carried out to provide an overview of how the business is performing and where it is heading.
Business information can be provided including company searches, on-line information, reference texts, journals, and videos.
Small businesses that adopt a co-operative structure are twice as likely to survive the critical first three years compared to sole traders or partnerships.
Page updated: 18 Jan 2008