If growing your co-operative or credit union is part of your 2021 strategy, then we have something in common. Thanks to a COVID-19 recovery grant from The Co-operators, we are building tools to help co-operatives grow through acquiring businesses that could be exiting the local economy.

COVID-19 has resulted in the loss of hundreds of small businesses across the country. This means less jobs, and overall economic prosperity. We are working to create resources that make it easier for exiting business owners to sell to a co-operative to continue the legacy of their business in their community. At the same time, we are developing companion materials that make it easier for co-operatives to purchase a local business.  This work aligns with a national initiative through the University of Waterloo’s Leadership Lab;  a national think-and-do initiative investigating co-operatives as a succession planning solution.

How does this help your co-operative grow? Co-operatives are constantly building new business units, products and services, and entering into new markets to increase member value. What if these existing units could be purchased? What if these assets came with a proven track-record, experienced management, book of business and a local connection? This is where we are working

To ensure these tools meets the needs of co-operatives and credit unions we would appreciate your input. There are two very easy ways to participate 1) complete this short survey, or 2) email Seth Leon at sleon@acca.coop to set up a phone-interview.