About

Cooper.coop stands as a testament to a visionary journey initiated by Austin Halper, the founder and driving force behind its inception. The roots of our organization trace back to Austin's post-college endeavors, where the challenge of locating cooperative employment opportunities on conventional job search platforms inspired him to embark on a transformative mission.

Dissatisfied with the status quo, Austin resolved to create a dedicated platform that transcends traditional boundaries. The genesis of Cooper.coop transpired during Austin's pursuit of advanced studies, crystallizing his commitment to fostering a more cooperative world.

Our unwavering vision revolves around the empowerment of individuals and cooperative enterprises, facilitating meaningful connections with co-ops and their members. At the heart of our ethos lies the profound belief in expanding the cooperative sector's influence, fostering collaboration, and contributing to the global proliferation of cooperative principles.

Cooper.coop epitomizes a commitment to catalyzing positive change by harmonizing individuals, businesses, and cooperative ideals.

Core Values: Cooperative Principles

At Cooper.coop, we wholeheartedly embrace the seven fundamental Cooperative Principles that underpin the cooperative movement globally. These principles are not only the guiding light of cooperative enterprises but also the pillars upon which our platform is built.

1. Voluntary and Open Membership:

The principle of voluntary and open membership is the cornerstone of inclusivity at Cooper.coop. We welcome individuals and cooperative businesses with open arms, fostering a community where participation is voluntary, and access to cooperative opportunities is readily available.

2. Democratic Member Control:

Democracy is integral to our core values. We believe in the power of democratic decision-making, both within our platform and across cooperative enterprises. Our commitment to democratic member control ensures that all stakeholders have a voice, promoting fairness and equality.

3. Member Economic Participation:

Economic participation is central to cooperative success. By facilitating job searches and connections between job seekers and cooperative businesses, Cooper.coop actively promotes member economic participation. We empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to the cooperative economy.

4. Autonomy and Independence:

Autonomy and independence are vital principles guiding our operations. We respect the autonomy of each cooperative entity on our platform, recognizing the unique contributions they bring. Cooper.coop serves as a supportive space where cooperatives maintain their independence while benefiting from collective collaboration.

5. Education, Training, and Information:

Knowledge is key to empowerment. Cooper.coop is committed to providing education, training, and information to our users. Whether through job listings, resources, or collaborative opportunities, we strive to empower individuals and cooperative businesses with the knowledge needed for success.

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives:

Collaboration is not just encouraged; it is intrinsic to our DNA. Cooper.coop actively promotes cooperation among cooperatives, fostering a network where entities can share experiences, resources, and insights. This principle strengthens the cooperative community and amplifies the impact of each member.

7. Concern for Community:

A profound concern for community is embedded in our values. Cooper.coop goes beyond the individual and collective success of its users; it extends to a commitment to community welfare. We strive to create a positive impact on local and global communities by promoting cooperative values and practices.

How These Core Values Help Cooper.coop: Building a Strong Cooperative Network:

By aligning with the Cooperative Principles, Cooper.coop establishes a robust network of cooperative entities. This interconnectedness fosters collaboration, resource-sharing, and a collective commitment to cooperative values.

Fostering Trust and Participation:

The principles of democracy, autonomy, and openness cultivate a culture of trust and active participation. Users trust our platform as a transparent and inclusive space, where their voices are heard, and they actively engage in the cooperative community.

Empowering Economic Participation:

Member economic participation is a direct outcome of our platform's functionality. Cooper.coop empowers individuals to economically participate in cooperative ventures, contributing to the sustainable growth of the cooperative economy.

Promoting Cooperative Identity:

Through education, training, and information-sharing, Cooper.coop actively promotes and strengthens the cooperative identity. Users gain a deeper understanding of cooperative principles, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose within the cooperative community.

In essence, our commitment to the Cooperative Principles not only aligns with the foundational values of the cooperative movement but also positions Cooper.coop as a catalyst for cooperative success, collaboration, and positive community impact.