Co-operative Development

The traditional approach when starting a business has been to 'go it alone' and set up as a sole trader with all the risks and problems this involves. An alternative is to 'go it together' and start a co-operative.

A co-operative is an easy way for two or more people to go into business together. The way co-operatives are set up reduces personal financial risk.

In a co-operative everyone who comes to work for the business, and remains within it, is given a say in how the firm is run, and a share in the profits and ownership.

Advice on setting up a co-operative can include tailored business counselling and advice; help with business planning; design of legal structures and documentation; assistance with accessing finance; helping with finding premises and equipment, and identifying suppliers; information services.

Support may also be available for co-operatives once they start trading, helping them to strengthen their business and achieve long-term survival.

For help with starting up a co-operative, please contact

Chester & Ellesmere Port Enterprise Agency
Chester Enterprise Agency
Hoole Bridge
Chester
CH2 3NE
Tel: 01244 311474

Fax: 01244 310690 E-mail: info@cepea.co.uk Website: http://www.cepea.co.uk/ (external link)

For general business and start up advice, please see the Business Contacts page

Useful Links:

• Co-operatives UK - The Union of Co-operative Enterprises (external link)
• The Co-operative College  (external link)
• Industrial Common Ownership Finance Ltd (external link)