BCCA Pilot Project - Co-op Development Advisory Services

BCCA — 23 Oct 2008

Through support from the Co-operative Development Initiative (CDI), a federally funded program to promote the development of new co-operatives across Canada, the BCCA has initiated a co-op development advisory service pilot project. In conjunction with highly experienced and skilled co-op development professionals in B.C., the BCCA provides expert assistance to groups who want to start new co-ops or who need help managing existing ones.

The areas of support and advice offered to groups typically fall within one or more of the following themes:

1. The basics of co-op development – explanation of the co-op development process phases and discussion on how they apply to the group's co-op concept.

2. Determining business idea viability – assessment of the demand for the product or service to be offered by the co-op.

3. Incorporation – clarification on the Co-op Act and/or assistance on the process for incorporation.

4. Marketing plan – steps to develop a marketing plan.

5. Business plan - advice on how to prepare a feasibility study/provide a guide.

6. Member recruitment – strategies to create a member recruitment drive plan.

7. Other – group specific questions unique to the environment, group, or product/service. Just ask!

For more information on the BCCA’s co-op development advisory services please contact us at: email: coop_development@bcca.coop or phone: 604-662-3906.

Category: Business, Community