Worker Cooperatives
What is a Worker Owned Cooperative?
A worker cooperative is a values-driven business that puts worker and community benefit at the core of its purpose. The two central characteristics of worker cooperatives are:
Workers own the business, and they participate in its financial success on the basis of their labor contribution to the cooperative.
Workers have representation on and vote for the board of directors, adhering to the principle of one worker, one vote.
Source: Democracy at Work Institute
How do I get involved?
Meet with a Worker Center Organizer:
Learn from our Worker Center Staff about the benefits of being a worker-owner and discuss the relevance to your current work situation.
Join us for a training module:
Here you will learn what a worker co-op is, the benefits of being a worker-owner, and the mission of the Madison Cooperative Development Coalition (MCDC) project. We highlight the resources available through MCDC and its community partners.
Engage with other workers:
Members of Worker Justice Wisconsin will be aware of all co-operative development options and resources. They will connect and engage with peers to build community and support!
MCDC Partnership
We work together with the Madison Cooperative Development Coalition (MCDC). Which is a collaborative of community-based organizations, and cooperative developers. MCDC works to support the growth and creation of worker cooperatives, specifically addressing the factors affecting local communities of color, low-wealth and traditionally excluded or exploited workforces.
The goal is to create a sustainable system that will combat poverty, empower workers, and increase equity in order to strengthen Madison’s long-term economic health.