Seven Cooperative Principles

All cooperative businesses adhere to these seven guiding principles:

1)   Voluntary and Open Membership:                                                                                                                               Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, open to all persons able to use their services and willing to accept the responsibilities of membership.

2)   Democratic Member Control:           

                                                                                                                Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting policies and making decisions.

3)  Members' Economic Participation:    

                                                                                                                           Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative.

4)  Autonomy and Independence:         

                                                                                                                        Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their members.

5)  Education, Training, and Information:      

                                                                                                                      Cooperatives provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers, and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their cooperatives.

6)  Cooperation Among Cooperatives:     

                                                                                                                              Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by working together.

7)  Concern for Community:       

                                                                                                                              While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities.