Here are some links to training programs and general co-op information that we think you will find helpful. Some of the following resources were originally presented as webinars. Please feel free to download these materials to learn more about organizing your co-op.
How to Start a Food Co-op A great general resource for groups planning to start a new food co-op.
Other Resources
New! The Member Equity Toolbox: Structuring Capital to Meet Present and Future Needs
Member Loan Toolbox PDF Member Loan Toolbox Word
Users' Manual for Customer and Member Surveys includes information on how to obtain a complete survey template.
Feasibility Study FAQ and Checklists
Legal Primer for Formation of Retail Consumer Co-ops
Business Planning presentation by Mel Braverman
Readings for the Business Planning presentation
Market Research: Projecting Sales Potential and Identifying Site Characteristics
Sources & Uses Budget Template (Revised in 2008) by Bill Gessner
USDA Report on Success Factors for Rural Co-ops
Customer & Member Survey FAQ
Best Practices for Membership & Marketing
Webinar Recordings
Starting a Food Co-op: What You Need to Know
Recordings of live presentations are now available!
The Food Co-op 500 program and The CDS Consulting Co-op recently presented a series of twelve internet-based seminars designed to help you understand how a new retail food co-op is born. Our presenters were nationally-recognized consultants with many years experience supporting both established and new co-ops. The presentations included the following topics:
Orientation to Development Skills & Tools for the Organizing Stage Legal Issues for New Food Co-ops Governance & Accountability Members' Economic Participation Creating a Development Budget: Sources & Uses Evaluating Feasibility & Planning for Success Market Research: Projecting Sales Potential & Identifying Site Characteristics Planning Your Mmeber Loan Campaign Marketing & Promotion Project Management Hiring Your First General Manager
These webinars were recorded and can be downloaded to view at your convenience. Please note--these are large files that include a PowerPoint presentation and the audio. If you wish, you may also download the PowerPoint slides without the audio. All workshops and materials can be accessed at: Training Webinars for Start-up Co-ops