member-owned

Member-owned refers to organizations, such as cooperatives or credit unions, that are owned and operated by their members rather than by external shareholders. Each member typically has an equal say in decision-making, often based on a one-member, one-vote principle, regardless of their level of investment. This structure emphasizes democratic control and shared benefits, as profits are usually reinvested into the organization or distributed among members. Examples include local food cooperatives and community banks, where the focus is on serving the needs and interests of the members rather than maximizing profits for outside investors.