Types of Co-ops in Alberta
If you’re starting a business in Alberta, choosing the right structure is one of your most important decisions. A co-operative (co-op) isn’t just a business model—it’s a community-driven, sustainable approach that balances profit with purpose.
Co-ops thrive in nearly every industry, from agriculture and energy to retail and housing, providing economic opportunities while ensuring businesses remain locally owned and operated. But with different co-ops available, how do you know which is right for you?
Why Choose a Co-op?
Shared Ownership & Control – Co-ops are owned by the people who use, work in, or benefit from them, ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of the business and community.
Stronger Together – Unlike traditional businesses, where a single owner or shareholders drive decisions, co-ops equally distribute profits and decision-making power.
Built for Long-Term Success – Co-ops reinvest in themselves and their members, creating a stable, community-focused business model.
Co-operatives in Action: Types of Co-ops in Alberta
Co-operatives come in many forms, each designed to meet the unique needs of their members and communities. Across Alberta, co-ops drive economic growth, foster local investment, and provide essential services. Whether you're looking to start a new venture or transition an existing business, understanding the different types of co-ops can help you determine the right model for your goals.
Co-operatives exist in every sector, from housing and retail to energy, finance, and technology. Across Alberta, co-ops drive economic growth, foster local investment, and provide essential services.
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Worker co-ops are owned and operated by the employees who work in the business. Each worker-member has an equal say in decision-making and shares in the profits.
Example: Multicultural Health Brokers Co-op – A worker-owned co-op in Edmonton that provides culturally responsive health, social, and family support services to immigrant and refugee communities.
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These co-ops are owned by the people who use their products or services. Members receive benefits such as discounts, dividends, or improved services.
Example: Cooperative Memorial Society – A member-owned co-op providing affordable, pre-planned funeral services, ensuring dignity and cost savings for Albertans.
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Producer co-ops help farmers, artists, and small businesses collaborate to market, distribute, or process their products. By working together, members gain better market access and cost savings.
Example: RedHat Co-op – A farmer-owned co-op supplying high-quality, locally grown produce to Western Canada while supporting sustainable agriculture.
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Investment co-ops allow individuals, businesses, and organizations to pool financial resources and invest in community-driven projects, keeping economic benefits local.
Example: Sangudo Opportunity Development Co-op – A pioneering rural investment co-op that raises local capital to invest in small businesses and community revitalization projects, ensuring economic prosperity remains within the community.
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NGCs are a modern type of producer co-op where members invest in value-added processing, manufacturing, or marketing to strengthen their industry.
Example: Solar Power Investment Cooperative of Edmonton (SPICE) – A community-owned renewable energy co-op that empowers Edmonton residents to invest in solar power solutions while supporting local sustainability initiatives.
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These co-ops provide essential social services such as healthcare, childcare, or affordable workspace solutions. They often have multiple stakeholder groups involved in governance.
Example: ACCESS – A shared services co-op that helps non-profits and co-operatives streamline operations, reduce costs - plus maximize savings and rebates on essentials through group buying.
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These co-ops unite different member groups—workers, consumers, investors, and community organizations—under one business structure.
Example: Co-operators – A multi-stakeholder co-owned by co-operative and member organizations across Canada, providing insurance and financial services while reinvesting in communities.
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Housing co-ops are owned by those living there, offering long-term affordability and a strong sense of community.
Example: Canadian Hispanic Village Housing Co-op – A resident-owned housing co-op providing affordable and culturally inclusive housing for the Hispanic community in Alberta.
Types of Co-ops in Alberta
Find the Right Co-op Model for Your Business
Alberta’s co-op sector is thriving, with opportunities across multiple industries. Whether you're looking to create a worker-owned enterprise, invest in a community project, or develop sustainable energy solutions, the co-op model offers a flexible and resilient approach to business.