What is a Worker Cooperative?
Jim Lefkowitz
on
March 28, 2025

Welcome to the wonderful world of worker cooperatives! These are unique businesses that are owned and run by the very people who work in them, making them a special place to grow and thrive.
Let’s break it down simply:
Ownership and Control:
In a worker cooperative, every worker is an owner, which means they have a say in how things run and how profits are shared.
Democratic Governance:
Worker cooperatives operate on a democratic principle where each member (worker) has an equal vote, regardless of their position or investment.
Profit Sharing:
Profits are distributed among the worker-members, usually reflecting their contributions to the business.
Values-Driven:
These cooperatives are all about empowering workers, uplifting the community, and promoting sustainable practices.
Examples:
You can find worker cooperatives in all sorts of businesses, like cozy cafes, cleaning services, childcare centers, and so much more!
Benefits:
They provide stable jobs, opportunities for growth and training, and a wonderful sense of ownership and control for everyone involved.
- Category: FAQ