member cooperatives

Member cooperatives are organizations owned and operated by their members, who share common interests or goals. In this structure, each member has an equal say in decision-making, regardless of their financial investment. This allows for democratic governance and prioritizes the needs and benefits of the members over profit. Common examples include credit unions, food co-ops, and agricultural cooperatives. Members typically join to access services, pool resources, or gain better purchasing power while fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The focus is on mutual benefit rather than maximizing profits for external shareholders.