Who are we?
Vision
Our vision is for a thriving co-operative movement in Scotland – Rooted, Resilient, Radical and Relevant.
Mission
Our mission is to act as a trusted source of quality advice, shared learning and genuine connection that grows and strengthens Scotland’s co-operative movement
Co-operate Scotland is a co-operative of business and development advisers specialising in co-ops and community businesses.
We’ve got hands-on experience ourselves of starting co-ops, managing co-ops, handling conflict in co-ops, promoting co-ops and developing and growing co-ops and community businesses across many different sectors.
To get to know a bit about each of our current members:
Why co-operatives?
We believe Scotland has a growing appetite and need for democratically-driven, locally-owned and community-focused businesses.
Research shows co-operatives and community businesses are more resilient than traditional businesses and can help to keep money local. Working co-operatively promotes fairness and inclusion and is better for business.
Co-operatives are a practical, proven and effective way to tackle disadvantage, marginalisation and inequality. To make Scotland a fairer place to live and work.
How do we work with you?
Our starting point is you and your needs.
We’ll work with your co-op or community business in the way that works best for you with high-quality, carefully considered, tailored advice and support:
- Getting you started, helping you solve problems, helping you find clarity, or guiding you through strategic or financial challenges
- With face-to-face sessions, workshops, advice and guidance, hand-holding, mentoring or training
We’ll also help to connect you with like-minded co-operatives, community businesses and other sources of co-operative support.
We can give you a quote for working together, or signpost you to various organisations which can fund co-op support work.
Unsure or want to find out more? Get in touch with us for an informal chat and we’ll work out together what you need.