The Seven Co-operative Principles*

(pdf version)

1. Voluntary and open membership- Co-ops are open to anyone who is willing to accept membership responsibilities and who wants to use the Co-op's services

2. Democratic Member Control- Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.  All members have equal voting rights

3. Members’ economic participation- Members contribute equally to and democratically control the capital of People’s Food Cooperative. The economic benefits of a cooperative operation are returned to the members, reinvested in the co-op, or used to provide member services.

4. Autonomy And Independence- Cooperatives are independent, autonomous organizations that are controlled by, and exist for the benefit of, their members.  If they enter into agreements with other organizations, including governments, or raise capital from external sources, they do so on terms that ensure democratic control by their members and maintain their cooperative autonomy.

5. Education, Training And Information- Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives.

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives- Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, regional, national and international structures.

7. Concern for the Community- While focusing on member needs, Cooperatives work for the sustainable development of the community through policies accepted by their members.

*These principles were created by the International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) to help guide co-operative organizations. Read more about the ICA at www.ica.coop/principle.html

Also See...

• Committed to the Co-op Way (pdf)

Weavers Way Co-op, Philadelphia

• The LINKS heading for more information on the national "Coop500" initiative, examples of other successful co-ops around the country, and other links.