The International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) outlines seven cooperative principles by which cooperatives put their values into practice. The ICA is considering adopting the eighth principle listed below; we and many other co-ops have already chosen to adopt it.
- Voluntary, Open Ownership
Open to all without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination.
You may shop, join, or leave the Co-op at any time. - Democratic Owner Control
One Owner, one vote.
Your voice will be heard. - Owner Economic Participation
Owners contribute equitably to the capital of the cooperative. The economic benefits of a cooperative operation are returned to the Owners, reinvested in the co-op, or used to provide Owner services.
You participate in the economic success of your Co-op. - Autonomy and Independence
Cooperatives are autonomous organizations controlled by their Owners.
Together, you help guide the Co-op. - Education, Training and Information
Cooperatives provide education and training for Owners so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives. They inform the general public about the nature and benefits of cooperation.
Resources are available to help you to make informed decisions. - Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Cooperatives serve their Owners most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together through local, regional, national, and international structures.
Your Co-op is more successful when cooperating with others. - Concern for the Community
While focusing on Owners’ needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their Owners.
Your community benefits from your Co-op’s work. - Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Cooperatives strive to incorporate diversity, perform equitably, and ensure inclusion at all levels of their organizations to better serve members, show Owners they are valued, and ensure Owners receive equitable service.
We will be successful when you feel that you belong at your Co-op.
Definition of a Cooperative
A cooperative (or co-op) is a business operated and democratically controlled by its membership of Owners to meet their common needs and aspirations. Co-ops are guided by the seven principles.
Cooperatives operate according to a set of basic principles. Six were drafted by the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) in 1966, based on guidelines written by the founders of the modern cooperative movement in England in 1844. In 1995, the ICA restated, expanded and adopted the 1966 principles to guide cooperative organizations into the 21st Century. A number of cooperatives around the world have adopted or are considering adopting an eighth principl
