Colville Lake Kapami Co-Op

Co-operative Associations

 

A Co-op is a business that is controlled by a group of people rather than an individual.

Differences Between Co-ops and Regular Businesses

  • The main goal of a Co-op is to fill a need within a community while a business is to make as much money for shareholders as possible
  • In a Co-op, one person=one vote while in a business the voting power is equal to the amount of shares owned
  • Co-ops can be formed in every business sector imaginable. Examples of Co-ops are:
    • Arctic Co-op
    • Inukshuk Housing Co-operative
    • Old Town Glassworks
  • Different types of Co-ops include:
    • Financial (credit unions)
    • Service (housing)
    • Consumer (retail stores)
    • Worker (members are the employees)

Starting a Co-Op in the NWT

You must:

  • Have at least five members
  • Gather information
  • Create business plan
  • Organize
  • Formally set-up Co-op
  • Secure financing
  • Prepare for opening

More information 

Corporate Registry