Running a Small Food Co-op or getting a new Start-Up off the ground is both rewarding and challenging. It’s good to have the support of friends along the way!
Buffalo Mountain Co-op, Hardwick, VT, in the middle of their expansion in August of 2022
The 6th Principle of the Co-operative Identity recognizes that co-ops “serve their members most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, national, regional and international structures.” Indeed, the most successful co-op movements in the world are rooted in associations that leverage the scale and experience of existing members to support the growth and success of smaller co-ops and new initiatives.
For example, small and rural food co-ops in our region face unique challenges as they work to serve their communities and support local producers. The NFCA works with partners such the Cooperative Development Foundation to better understand the needs of these co-ops, and provide technical assistance and opportunities for peer networking, shared learning, and collaboration.
Since our founding, the NFCA has leveraged the experience of our members to support the next wave of food co-ops, providing technical assistance, legal advice, and opportunities for peer networking. We also partner with Food Co-op Initiative (FCI) to offer support to Start-Up organizers across the country as they work to open their doors to a more healthy, just, and sustainable food system. The NFCA has directly supported the incorporation, organizing, and promotion of numerous Start-Ups across our region, including recently opened co-operatives such as Assabet Co-op Market (MA), Dorchester Food Co-op (MA), Morrisville Food Co-op (VT), Old Creamery Co-op (MA), and Urban Greens Co-op Market (RI).
Start Up Support
Starting a new Food Co-op is both rewarding and challenging. It’s good to have the support of friends along the way!
Small Food Co-ops
Small food co-ops are invaluable assets for their communities, and face unique challenges as they work to provide healthy, nutritious food and support local producers. Our Small Food Co-ops Resource Portal provides support in areas of need identified by co-op managers and directors.
Peer Networking Groups
Peer Networking Groups: 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.
These programs and activities are supported by the member co-ops of the Neighboring Food Co-op Association (NFCA), with the additional support of these partner organizations.
