Cooperation Buffalo

You're invited to join Cooperation Buffalo and PUSH Buffalo for a virtual film screening and discussion of "Own the Change: Building Economic Democracy" on Tuesday, March 16th at 6pm. Created by The Toolbox for Education and Social Action (TESA) in collaboration with The Laura Flanders Show, "Own the Change" is a short documentary that gives us a guide to starting worker co-ops. It lays out the real-world challenges of launching a co-op as well as the transformative benefits... the model offers. The 22-minute film will be followed by a discussion on the concepts explored in the film, the benefits and challenges of the cooperative business model, and how Cooperation Buffalo can help YOU start a worker-owned business. Together we can build the world we want to see and create a solidarity economy! What: "Own the Change: Building Economic Democracy" screening and discussion When: Tuesday, March 16th, 6pm - 7:30pm EST Where: Zoom meeting - please use this registration link (note: you must register *before* the event to receive an invite!): https://pushbuffalo.zoom.us//tJ0ocu-uqzgsGNYlHVS8Ev_z_WQYt After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. We hope to see you there!

We agree! "As we face the task of rebuilding decimated local economies and closing a gaping wealth gap that is dividing our nation, advancing employee ownership is essential to building a democratic economy that offers economic security for all."

Have you checked out the latest New Economy Roundup from the New Economy Coalition? In this edition NEC celebrates the history and future of Black cooperative economics! They also discuss why the Southern blackouts highlight the need for energy democracy, solidarity with popular uprisings in Haiti, why artists need a solidarity economy, building POC community ownership of the food system, and more. https://neweconomy.net/new-economy-roundup-black-co-op-his/

"But West said just because [cooperatives are] rare doesn’t mean they’re weak. 'Worker co-ops offer an incredible opportunity to shift power in our economy, to democratize power,' she said. 'They’re a tool to help communities address systemic discrimination and build up their own strong, internal systems.'" We agree! Read on to learn more about the benefits of starting a worker-owned business.

Entrepreneur.com making the case for worker ownership as a solid option for succession planning? We'll take it! If you're considering moving on from a small business you own, we may be able to help you transition to a worker-owned company to preserve your legacy, your workers' jobs, and the community asset you built.

Employee ownership as a succession plan is catching on all across the US, including in neighboring Erie, PA. The ESOP and worker cooperative models of ownership keep companies rooted in place and build wealth and job stability for the workers. Contact us to learn more!