Rooted in the Principle of Co-operation among Co-operatives — the idea that the best way to meet our needs and goals is through association — our peer networking opportunities for Member Co-ops to support shared success.
Central to the mission of the Neighboring Food Co-op Association (NFCA) is providing opportunities for our Member Co-ops to network, build supportive relationships, and share ideas, strategies, and innovations to support shared success.
Our Peer Networking Groups provide forums for ongoing informal communication, problem-solving and collaboration for co-op Directors, Managers, and Departmental Staff. Our Peer Groups are organized based on feedback from our Member Co-ops on their needs and priorities, and currently include online opportunities for Board Leaders, Bulk Departments, New(ish) General Managers, Prepared Foods Departments, and Small Food Co-ops.
We also provide more formal Communities of Practice as opportunities for co-creation of value — strategic initiatives that can support innovation, competitive advantage, and articulation of the Co-operative Identity in our operations — such as our collaboration with the Northeast Organic Family Farm Partnership, Policy Advocacy initiative with New England Farmers Union, and an annual session for Marketing Departments focused on organizing for National Co-op Month.
Member Co-ops are invited to contact us for more information on opportunities for participation..