About Our Organization
We are a federation committed to building a solidarity economy powered by worker ownership.
Our History
Rooted in Solidarity, Focused on the Future
Founded by a coalition of pioneering worker cooperatives, our organization was born from the belief that economic democracy is essential for a just society. For over two decades, we have been at the forefront of the cooperative movement, providing critical support for startups, facilitating business conversions, and advocating for policies that enable worker ownership to flourish from coast to coast.
Our journey began in the vibrant solidarity economy of Quebec and has since expanded to champion tech co-ops in BC, agricultural collectives in Saskatchewan, care worker co-ops in Ontario, and creative hubs in Nova Scotia. We are a living network, constantly learning and evolving with our members.
Our Values
The Principles That Guide Us
Democracy
We believe in one worker, one vote. Every member has an equal say in the decisions that affect their work and their lives.
Equity
We strive for fair distribution of surplus and building wealth for all members, not just a few at the top.
Solidarity
We foster cooperation among cooperatives and support our communities, building a network of mutual support and shared success.
Leadership Team
Guided by Experienced Co-operators
Our leadership team brings a wealth of experience from diverse cooperative sectors across Canada. They are passionately committed to our mission and to serving our member cooperatives.
Michael Chen
Chairperson
With a background in sustainable urban planning, Michael co-founded a successful architectural design cooperative in Toronto.
Aisha Khan
Vice-Chair
Aisha is a leading advocate for platform cooperativism and a worker-member of a data science co-op in Vancouver.
David Leblanc
Treasurer
From Quebec's solidarity economy, David has two decades of experience in cooperative finance and development.
Priya Sharma
Secretary
Priya is a member of an industrial manufacturing co-op in Ontario and an expert in democratic governance models.
Ben Carter
Director, Atlantic Region
Ben represents the creative industries, hailing from a successful film production cooperative in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Olivia Green
Director, Prairies Region
A lifelong farmer, Olivia is a director at a large agricultural machinery cooperative based in Saskatchewan.