Starting a Business in Alberta? Think Co-op.
Choosing the right business structure is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as an entrepreneur. Your business model determines decisions, who benefits from the profits, and how your company evolves.
Many business owners in Alberta are turning to the co-operative model—a business structure that prioritizes shared ownership, local investment, and long-term success. But is it the right fit for your goals?
Let’s explore what makes co-ops unique and how they compare to traditional business structures.
Before You Start: Key Questions to Consider
Before launching any business, evaluating your goals and the structure that best supports them is essential.
Here are five key questions to help determine if a co-operative is the right fit for you:
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Co-ops are built on shared ownership, democratic decision-making, and community impact. If you value collaboration, equity, and long-term sustainability, it might be a great fit.
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Starting a co-op requires a group of at least three people working toward a shared goal. It’s about building something together, not going it alone.
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Successful co-ops solve real challenges—whether in a local community, an industry, or among a group of people with a common purpose.
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In co-ops, every member has an equal say. It’s not about top-down leadership—it’s about shared decision-making and mutual accountability.
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From grants to community investment funds, co-ops have access to unique financial tools. Support is out there—you just need to know where to look..
Self-Assessment: Is a Co-op the Right Fit?
Starting a business is about more than making a profit—it’s about creating something meaningful and sustainable. If you’re considering a co-op, ask yourself:
Vision & Shared Ownership
Do I want to build a business shaped by the people it serves or employs?
Am I interested in a shared ownership model, where success is distributed—not concentrated?
Do I want to reinvest profits into strengthening the business and creating community impact?
Operations & Decision-Making
Do I believe in democratic decision-making, where every voice has value?
Am I drawn to collaborative leadership instead of a top-down approach?
Purpose & Community Impact
Am I addressing a need that’s best solved through collective effort?
Do I want to balance social impact with business success — and make a difference in the process?
What Your Answers Mean
✔ Mostly YES – A co-op could be a strong fit for your business! Co-ops thrive on shared ownership, democratic decision-making, and a commitment to long-term sustainability. Learn more about co-op incorporation and next steps.
✔ A Mix of YES & NO – You may benefit from exploring hybrid models or consulting with co-op experts to refine your business approach. Some aspects of the co-op model may fit your vision, while others might require adjustments.
✔ Mostly NO – A different business structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation) may better align with your needs. However, co-ops remain a powerful model for collaboration, and some hybrid options may still work for you.
Next Steps
No matter what your results, learning more about the co-operative business model will give you valuable insights into shared ownership, democratic governance, and sustainable business success.