What’s a Co-op?

Statement on the Cooperative Identity

Adopted in 1995 by the International Cooperative Alliance

Definition

“A cooperative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise.”

Values

“Cooperatives are based on the values of self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, cooperative members believe in the ethical values of honesty, openness, social responsibility and caring for others.”

THE SEVEN COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLES

• Voluntary and open membership
• Democratic member control
• Member economic participation
• Autonomy and independence
• Education, training and information
• Cooperation among cooperatives
• Concern for community