Programs

To achieve its mission, Cooperation Texas provides education, training and technical assistance to existing and start-up worker cooperatives in all sectors of the economy, helping launch and strengthen businesses in Texas that put people and the planet first.  In addition to our development and support work, Cooperation Texas is also engaged in educating communities across the state about the nature and benefits of worker-owned cooperatives.  At schools, churches, and other community-based organizations, our staff organizes participatory workshops and educational events to help build awareness and support for a new economy based on democracy, sustainability and cooperation.

The following programs form the core of our work at Cooperation Texas:

Cooperative Business Institute

The Cooperative Business Institute (CBI) is a comprehensive training program designed to equip participants with the skills and resources needed to establish and manage a worker-owned cooperative. Based on a participatory education model, the CBI provides a rich variety of education and training opportunities on cooperatives, the green economy, and the legal, organizational and business essentials specific to worker-owned enterprises. Participants in the program can choose from individual or packaged trainings tailored to their needs, or a full-length certification course of 13 classes for teams of entrepreneurs seeking to launch a worker cooperative. Whether you are looking to strengthen an existing worker cooperative or launch a new one, the CBI has something for you. Read more.

Education for Cooperation

While all small businesses face significant challenges, particularly during the start-up phase, worker co-ops face additional barriers as a result of widespread gaps in knowledge about the nature and benefits of the cooperative model. The Education for Cooperation program helps level the playing field for worker cooperatives to grow, using public education and  strategic partnerships with stakeholders committed to creating sustainable jobs through worker-owned businesses in Texas. Read more.