Cooperative Principles
Do you know the Cooperative Principles?
Cooperatives operate with the following values at the forefront of everything they do!
Want to learn more? Contact CCNC to set up a time to receive customized training on what sets cooperatives apart from for-profit organizations.
1
VOLUNTARY &
OPEN MEMBERSHIP
Cooperatives are voluntary organizations open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination.
2
DEMOCRATIC MEMBER CONTROL
Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions. The elected representatives are accountable to the membership. In cooperatives, members have equal voting rights (one member, one vote).
3
MEMBERS' ECONOMIC PARTICIPATION
Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital is usually the common property aka "keeping the lights on."
4
AUTONOMY & INDEPENDENCE
Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.
5
EDUCATION, TRAINING, & INFORMATION
Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers and employees so that they can contribute effectively to the development of the cooperative. They inform the general public, youth and opinion leaders, about the nature and benefits of the co-op.
6
COOPERATION AMONG COOPERATIVES
Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures..
7
CONCERN FOR COMMUNITY
While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their members.
8
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION
Although this principle has not been officially adopted by the ICA, many cooperatives have chosen to adopt this principle. Cooperatives seek to incorporate diversity, perform equitably and ensure inclusion at all levels of their organizations to better serve members, show members they are valued and ensure members receive equitable service.