Training for New Employees of Cooperatives
Training for New Employees of Cooperatives
Cooperative Roots: Understanding the Co-op Model, Difference, and Identity
This training is designed for employees of cooperatives seeking to deepen their understanding of the cooperative model.
Participants will explore the unique aspects of cooperatives, including:
- Different types of co-ops and their representation in Wisconsin and the U.S.
- The reasons people form cooperatives and the benefits they provide to members, customers, and communities.
- How cooperatives differ from other business models and how to effectively communicate the “cooperative difference.”
By the end of this training, attendees will have a stronger grasp of the cooperative identity and its impact on communities and economies.
Testimonials
I think the close proximity of the other co-ops in the training was part of what made it so valuable! I learned things that felt immediately impactful to my life. I could connect their stories to the fact that I actually work with their co-op or maybe just drive past it sometimes.
-2024 Participant
This was a lot of great information! Certain positions in our co-op NEED to attend to learn more about why we are here!
-2024 Participant
I left with a much broader understanding of the co-op world and the co-ops in my own backyard. I left feeling like a knew more about waht the cooperative model can achieve in our world.”
-2024 Participant
Session Content
Session 1: Why we co-op
In this session we will address the following topics:
- The cooperative model and the wide range of cooperatives in Wisconsin
- The cooperative identity: definitions, values, and principles
- Why people form cooperatives: the benefits for members, customers, and communities
Session 2: The cooperative difference in action
In this session we will address the following topics:
- How cooperatives differ from other forms of enterprise
- How cooperatives evolve over time: challenges and opportunities
Logistics
Format:
Cooperative Roots is delivered through two live, 90-minute webinars held one week apart. Sessions are highly interactive and include networking activities, small-group discussions, presentations from UWCC staff, and opportunities to connect with cooperators from a variety of sectors and cooperative models across Wisconsin.
Please note that these sessions will not be recorded. Attendees are expected to attend the live sessions in full.
Who should attend:
This training is designed for Wisconsin-based cooperative employees who are new to the cooperative sector and want to build a stronger understanding of the cooperative model and its impact.
Training Schedule:
Fall Session
- October 14, 2026, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. CT: Why We Co-op (via zoom)
- October 21, 2026, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. CT: The Cooperative Difference in Action (via zoom)
Registration Details
Capacity:
24 participants
Attendees per co-op:
No more than 3
Cost
$75 per attendee
Registration Deadline
September 25, 2026
Participants must be employees of a Wisconsin-based cooperative
Accommodations
UW Center for Cooperatives events are open to all. You may request an interpreter, materials in an alternative language and/or format, and/or other services to make these event more accessible. Contact mawebster@wisc.edu. Make your request 25 days before the event. There is no added cost to you for these services.