WHAT IS THE UNION COOPERATIVE INITIATIVE?
The Union Cooperative Initiative (UCI) is building an economy that works for all – by supporting the development, incubation, and operation of unionized cooperatives. Our network of union co-ops provide community sustaining jobs that are good for people and the planet.
Building an economy that works for people and the planet
The UCI is building a solidarity economy starting right here in British Columbia. We support workers in developing community-focused union cooperative enterprises and non-profits. The BUILD CO-OPS program provides planning, start-up resources, expert support, and development services to move a project from idea to action.
AN ECONOMY THAT WORKS FOR ALL
There is a rich history of union cooperative organizing in BC and a growing movement across the world. The UCI helps workers and their unions transition to or build a community-focused and accountable cooperative enterprise or non-profit.
VALU CO-OP Community Projects
FEATURE CO-OP
Our network cooperatives bring people together to build strong and resilient communities
REACH OUT FUNDRAISING CO-OP
Founded 2024
We founded Reach Out as a team of diverse professionals who recognize the significant challenges non-profits and cooperatives face in accessing affordable, ethical fundraising, and marketing support. As the founders, Amos Teo, Miguel Garcia, and Semia Lindow, we brought together our experience in technology, community organizing, and data science to challenge industry exploitation and offer […]
BUILDING A SOLIDARITY ECONOMY
HOW WE CAN HELP
The UCI works with a team of community organizers, cooperative developers, researchers, and professional staff, with the support of partner unions and organizations, who provide wrap-around back end support for our member cooperatives.
We connect our member co-ops with a growing network of worker-owned enterprises, labour unions, and institutional partners to help them scale and grow. By supporting each other through the sharing of knowledge and purchasing, we are creating a solidarity economy in action.
