In a small town in northern Rio Grande do Sul, Maria, a rural producer, always believed that the future is built with your own hands. But it wasn’t until she discovered Sicredi Sul Minas RS/MG that she truly understood the power of cooperation. Since 1981, Sicredi Sul Minas has been more than a financial institution. […]
My Story at Villa Alegre Housing Co-operative
Nicole Stevens writes: For 22 years, I have had the privilege of being part of the Villa Alegre Housing Co-operative, a journey that began as one of its founding members. This Co-op was more than just a housing solution; it was an opportunity for personal growth and meaning. My journey with Villa Alegre began during […]
Why I Go Co-op: Accomplishing More Together in Alaska
Anne Harvey from Pioneer.coop writes: During a summer vacation to Alaska, I took the time to visit electric cooperatives near Anchorage. Why? Because I love connecting in person with the people and organizations in my cooperative family. Even though I am an introvert by nature, when I’m with electric or telephone co-op teams I just […]
Cootamundra: Rebuilding with the power of community
When Cootamundra faced shop closures and a declining town centre, its residents took decisive action. In August 2020, 80 locals gathered to explore an innovative solution: a community-owned co-operative retail store. With guidance from Anthony Taylor of the Business Council of Co-operatives and Mutuals, a Steering Committee was quickly formed to move the idea forward. […]
Community Energy Powers Climate Resistance
When a proposed development for a large wind farm in the Hepburn Shire region in 2005, the community wanted something different, and they wanted to have a say in how this initiative would prioritize and benefit the people who live in this region. Inspired by the cooperative energy in countries in Europe, they came together […]
MRSCB: A Cooperative Success Story from Kerala’s Heartland
Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Western Ghats, near the renowned Silent Valley National Park, lies the Mannarkkad Rural Service Co-operative Bank Limited (MRSCB)—a shining example of grassroots success in Kerala’s cooperative movement. Established in 1989 with just 305 members and a humble share capital of ₹30,000, MRSCB has grown into a thriving multi-service […]
MRSM Parit Cooperative: Project is more than just growing fruit.
In a bold step beyond textbooks and exams, a secondary school in Perak, Malaysia, has cultivated more than just academic success. Spearheaded by the school’s MRSM Parit cooperative, an innovative agricultural project has transformed unused land into a thriving farm, setting a benchmark for how educational institutions can drive community impact and sustainability. The cooperative […]
Nigeria Women Cooperative Federation Alliance (NIWCOFA)
The Nigeria Women Cooperative Federation Alliance (NIWCOFA) is owned by women-led cooperatives and is the foremost and fastest growing apex cooperative in Nigeria. It was formed and owned by Nigerian women on the 20th of September 2019. Despite the brutal threats facing women farmers in Nigeria, NIWCOFA women are contributing immensely to the food basket […]
Weavers Direct: Bridging Tradition and Technology to Empower Artisans Worldwide
In an age where e-commerce giants dominate the digital landscape, one platform is quietly revolutionizing how traditional artisans connect with the global marketplace. Weavers Direct, an online marketplace dedicated to handwoven goods, is offering artisans from across the globe a vital lifeline—transforming local craftsmanship into international opportunity. More than just an e-commerce platform, Weavers Direct […]