Cooperative Acronyms
4-in-3 — Four Cornerstones in Three Stages :A development model for food co-ops. 4PCG — Four Pillars of Cooperative Governance :A governance model for co-ops. ACBA — Austin Cooperative Business Association :a joint project between Austin-area cooperatives and the National Cooperative Business Association that aims to benefit and expand cooperative businesses in Central Texas. The ACBA plans to help increase the membership and profitability [...]
Components of a Successful System of Accountable Empowerment
Accountable Empowerment It is always important for a co-op board of directors to have good systems of accountability in place to provide proper and strategic oversight of the general manager. With strongly increasing demand for natural and organic products resulting in more pressure from competitors, cooperatives need to strengthen operations, and at the same time effectively communicate the value the cooperative brings to its [...]
Accessibility is Key
The New Normal has hit Chico Natural Foods in California. General Manager Liza Tedesco believes the response from the food co-op sector must be accessibility. Liza share her perspective and the initial steps and questions that co-op leaders must ask themselves in order to answer the question "What are the barriers to more people shopping co-op?"
Amplify Cooperative Impact through Participation
The democratic structure of cooperatives allows people the opportunity to have a real influence on business goals and outcomes through their investment, patronage, feedback, and aspirations. It’s one of the most defining features of cooperation, especially compared to other business models where social or environmental impact may be considered incidental. In cooperatives, concern for community is one of our principles and purpose. In 2012, [...]
Video Field Guide: Tips for Facilitating Board Meetings
Michael Healy and Mark Goehring are shooting the breeze in this casual (and short) video recording featuring some great pointers for boards and meeting facilitators to help get you through your meeting agendas on target and on time.
Video Field Guide: Connecting Policy Governance and the 4 Pillars
Use the Four Pillars of Cooperative Governance to increase effectiveness of the board’s work.