organization profile

University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives

About Us

The University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives (UWCC) is a trusted and unbiased voice on the cooperative business model serving the needs of cooperatives in Wisconsin and beyond. With a strong public service orientation and access to world-class university resources, we leverage research, education, and outreach capabilities to foster critical thinking and understanding about cooperatives. As the only U.S. university-based center that studies and supports all forms of cooperative business, UWCC provides valued education and research to a diverse range of business communities.

Our Mission

The University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives seeks to increase understanding and encourage critical thinking about cooperatives by fostering scholarship and mutual learning among academics, the cooperative community, policy makers and the public.

Who We Serve

Our team of cooperative development specialists is available to help you start a new co-op, strengthen an established co-op, or convert an existing business to the cooperative structure

  • Assistance to start-up co-ops in the following areas: organizational development, member surveys, community and stakeholder meetings, membership drives, capitalization strategies, development of bylaws and articles of incorporation, board training, and policy development
  • Support to established cooperatives includes member training and education, strategic planning, meeting facilitation, board training, policy development, board and management evaluations, and referrals to appropriate legal, accounting, and other professional services.
  • Assistance to businesses looking to transition to the cooperative model.
  • Education and training through regional workshops, national conferences, and tailored education for boards and visiting cooperative groups.