Co-operatives First

To succeed, a co-op needs good governance. In this webinar, you'll learn from the mistakes of notable co-ops that failed, so your co-op can build better processes, plan for the future, and ensure it's meeting the needs of its members. Sign up FREE: bit.ly/4wsTq8w

Our annual report is out! Read it to find out why 2025 was a year of communities using co-ops to invest in themselves, and how we helped them do it. bit.ly/4dq3LKZ

This Economic Development Week, we’re celebrating the hard work Economic Development Officers do to help their regions grow and thrive. Here are three great examples of how EDOs have supported the co-operatives their communities needed: bit.ly/3OESbCs

This month, check out our 2025 annual report! It was a year of people creating co-ops to make significant investments in their communities. bit.ly/3PaYu0F

You've welcomed some new members to your co-op's board, and you want to get them up to speed. On our latest webinar, Kyle provided details of what to include in your director orientation plan and where to find the resources you need. Watch here: bit.ly/4mYnu7L

Where’s the beef? In Western Canada, it’s probably at a co-op — whether that’s a stockyard, feedlot, abattoir, or Co-op store. Here are three ways cattle producers use the co-op model to improve their industry: bit.ly/4mMMnmF

Now that your co-op's AGM is over, it's time to get your new board up to speed. In this webinar, you'll learn what you need to put in a director orientation plan and where to find the resources you need. Join us FREE: bit.ly/41KXWRO

Kyle's in Kananaskis this week for @edaalberta's Xperience event! He took part in a session called "Fresh Lenses on Rural Housing" - a topic everyone is talking about 🏘️

Our team headed to Saskatoon Co-op today to Stuff the Bus! If you're in the city, stop by the 8th Street location to stuff the bus with non-perishable goods for the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre 🥫

Candice is at SUMA this week, introducing an engaging panel discussion sponsored by Co-operatives First called "Frameworks for Municipal Wellbeing". We love connecting with municipal leaders who are making great things happen in their communities!

It's time for some co-op trivia! Check out our blog to learn 10 fun facts about co-ops to impress your friends 📖 bit.ly/4c3ybCc

What do you need to start a co-op? A good idea, a group of people, and the Co-op Creator. Visit this resource site for step-by-step guidance on creating a co-operative. coopcreator.ca

This month's newsletter has a great new video about how a group of coffee drinkers saved their local cafe by starting a co-op, plus upcoming webinars, insightful blog posts, and more. Read it here: bit.ly/48nKeIa

In our most recent webinar, Sheila Willis and Terry Geib shared their stories about growing their co-ops' memberships. Watch now for practical tips on community outreach, building trust, and sustaining engagement. bit.ly/4t2Ej36

Rural communities seeking housing solutions — this webinar is for you. Join us for this conversation with Marla Gagnier of the Co-operative Housing Federation of Canada, and learn how to advance large-scale rural co-op housing projects. Sign up FREE: bit.ly/47lYcdo

Ever wish your investment dollars could make an impact right in your own backyard? With a Community Investment Co-op, they can. Here are three ways an investment co-operative can be used to strengthen communities. Read more: bit.ly/4uPy6td

Want great co-op content in your inbox? Sign up for our monthly newsletter to hear about new co-ops and get the latest webinars, blogs, and more. Subscribe: bit.ly/4rGWI5S

How do you know if your co-op's board is doing a good job? This webinar will offer practical tips for evaluating your board of directors, with resources for conducting a self-evaluation to make sure your board is operating effectively. Sign up FREE: bit.ly/3NyLOQi

Trista connected with key partners Ray Funk and Former Grand Chief Matthew Coon Come, and fishers from around the province, at this week's Saskatchewan Co-operative Fisheries Association AGM in Prince Albert.

Our Co-op Lessons webinars highlight the insights of people who have started their own co-ops. Join us for the "Building Your Circle" discussion, to hear how our guests built the memberships of their co-ops and continue to reach new members. Sign up FREE: bit.ly/4s2SftR