How does cooperative development improve the lives of people around the world?

Cooperatives are member-owned, democratic businesses that support grassroots economic and social development through increased access to resources and profits for members. Low-income, vulnerable, disenfranchised, or conflict-affected communities often do not have access to the resources necessary to improve their own livelihoods. Cooperatives provide a mechanism for a group of individuals to pool their limited assets and improve their economic circumstances. In turn, local economies benefit from the ripple effect of these financial gains. Cooperative development programs provide technical assistance and training to cooperatives to increase their membership, assets, stability and sustainability.

Applying Best Practices around the World

Over the 5-year period CHF International is applying a variety of existing best practices and methodological tools to help cooperative stakeholders improve their performance. CHF is be working with a team of specialists to develop a comprehensive Economic Impact Assessment that will measure both the primary and multiplier effects of cooperatives on local economies, especially compared to other business forms. IMPPACTS will also work with cooperative organizations to develop a set of Principles of an Enabling Environment, which will define an environment that enables the growth of cooperative businesses. Additional tools include: cooperative sector analysis, organizational assessments, target market surveys, business plan development, and strategic planning processes for cooperative stakeholders.

How is CHF International involved in the cooperative movement?

CHF International has been a leading force in the cooperative development movement starting with the U.S. cooperative housing movement in 1952. CHF has since expanded its expertise, programs, and geographic scope to provide individuals and communities around the world with the necessary tools to improve their lives. Over the last five years, CHF has improved the economic circumstances of over 35 million people by assisting 8,300 cooperatives and associations through support in business management, democratic decision-making, and improving the enabling environment in which cooperatives thrive.