Commonweal: the business of us
Key strengths of the Co-operative movement in the South West are community owned pubs and shops, agricultural growers, Land Trusts, Credit Unions, music venues, car clubs and sustainable energy providers. But what is a Co-op, how does it differ from other businesses, and why do so many ordinary people create them to address needs in their community?
IIn workshops taking place in September 2026 (Taunton) and January 2027 (Glastonbury) we will take a non-technical look at how you can be empowered to start a co-op and give you the confidence and support to take your idea forward. For more information contact
development@southwest.coop, or click on ‘Events’ in the menu above. Topics will include:
The Co-op Story: From History to Today
- An easy-to-digest look at how the movement started (The Rochdale Pioneers) and why it’s more relevant now than ever. We’ll look at the social history of people coming together to solve their own problems.
- Co-ops vs. Traditional Business: Spot the Difference
- A side-by-side comparison. We’ll explore the “Competitive Advantage”—why co-ops are more resilient, stay in business longer, and treat workers better than standard for-profit models.
- What brought you here, and do you have an idea you want to explore?
- A judgement-free, non-technical discussion on people’s ideas for co-operatives and whether the co-op advantage can make it work!
- Job Creation & Worker Ownership
- How to “be your own boss” without being alone. A session on worker-owned businesses, collective entrepreneurship, and how to build a board where everyone brings a different skill to the table.
- Raising Money Without Losing Your Soul
- A deep dive into Community Share Offers and raising investment. We’ll explain how you can get the funding you need from the community without selling out to a single wealthy owner or a bank.
We’re working towards a regular annual event that will act as a meeting point for solidarity economy activists (and those curious to find out more) – the Commonweal Assembly.
The Albemarle Centre
Taunton
TA1 1BA
25th September 2026
10am – 5pm
Tickets are free to all comers, but please do book in advance using the button below.
The Business Of Us – Commonweal Series
No background in business needed. Co-ops are for everyone!
25th September 2026, 10:00AM – 5:00PM
