Producer Cooperatives

Cecosesola is established in Barquisimeto, capital of the state of Lara, located in the central-western region of Venezuela, as a cooperative integration organization that has been established since 1967. It is a meeting space where we make active life of more than 50 organizations, integrated into a network for the production of goods and services that brings together more than 20,000 associates from popular sectors. Through this network, we develop a wide variety of activities such as: agricultural production, small-scale agro-industrial production, funeral services, transportation, health services, financial services, mutual aid funds, distribution of foods and household items. We are made up of about 1,300 associated workers who manage daily activities through participation that is open to everyone, without hierarchical positions.

A Venezuelan cooperative network that recently received the “Alternative Nobel Prize” tells its story.

How five Latin American producer cooperatives of high-value food products have overcome the hurdles to integration with the international market for their member farmers.

Ella Baker is well-regarded as a giant in the Civil Rights Movement, known for her unique participatory grassroots organizing style and also for her ability to galvanize young people to bring a militancy in the struggle to end segregation. But Baker is less known for her innovative organizing prowess before the 1960s – forming a network of self-help cooperatives to bring economic relief to black people during the Depression.Ella Baker is well-regarded as a giant in the Civil Rights Movement, known for her unique participatory grassroots organizing style and also for her ability to galvanize young people to bring a militancy in the struggle to end segregation. But Baker is less known for her innovative organizing prowess before the 1960s – forming a network of self-help cooperatives to bring economic relief to black people during the Depression.

Margaret Bau of USDA Rural Development makes a presentation on the steps to start a cooperative.

An interview with Dr. Jessica Gordon-Nembhard

How cooperatives have helped rebuild the infrastructure and trust of Rwandans after the 1994 genocide.

Camila Piñeiro discusses Cuba's new cooperative legislation.

Cooperating to Enhance Native American Food Economies

Ant Wilson talks about the Harcourt Organic Farming Co-op.