Worker-owned cooperatives are one of the most compelling answers to the question of how to create workplaces that center dignity and respect for all workers. Cooperatives allow us to use businesses as a tool to build wealth in our communities that have historically been and are currently being divested from. Cooperatives can also provide a framework for long-lasting community controlled infrastructure that is committed to addressing and dismantling racial and class inequity. Interested in learning more about the nuts and bolts of starting and operating a worker cooperative in your community?

Baltimore Roundtable for Economic Democracy (BRED) will be hosting our third annual Worker Cooperative Jumpstart! It will be a day long series of workshops focused on establishing and running worker cooperatives. We have something for everyone. So whether you've been a worker-owner for years, are thinking about starting a co-op, or just want to learn more this event is for you! Organizations and individuals welcome! We will be having exciting new content that focuses on cooperative conversions. More info to come!

We are asking for a suggested donation of $1-25 per person to cover the cost of the event and lunch. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.

If you or your organization need any specific accommodations, or to request interpretation services, please email info@baltimoreroundtable.org by Sept. 6th We would be happy to answer any questions. Same day registration is available. Childcare will be provided.

Here is a sneak peak at the Jumpstart schedule!*

9:00 AM Registration

9:30AM Welcome!

10AM Opening Panel

11AM. Basic Business Modeling Workshop
An interactive workshop that teaches basic business development and assessment tools!
With Kate Khatib (Red Emma’s) and Emily Lerman (Mera Kitchen Collective)

12:30 PM. Lunch
Featuring two Baltimore worker coops! Food by The Greener Kitchen and desserts from Mera Kitchen Collective. Vegan & Gluten Free options available.

1:30 PM. Steps to Startup: So you want to start a worker coop?
An immersive workshop focused around the steps your project needs to go through to start a worker cooperative. With Jim Johnson (BRED) and Emily Lerman (Mera Kitchen Collective)

3:15 PM. (Choose 1 of 3 simultaneous workshops)
1. Building a Culture of Worker- Ownership Workshop With Bernardo Vigil (Baltimore Bicycle Works)
2. Cooperative Decision Making & Facilitation Workshop
How do you make decisions in a worker-owned businesses? An overview of best practices. With Moss Froom (Red Emma’s)
3. Legal Issue-Spotting for Worker Coops
It is hard to know when you should talk to a lawyer when starting a co-op. Come hear from long time solidarity economy lawyers to demystify the process. With Parag Khandhar (Gilmore Khandhar, LLC)

4:30 PM. Closing Remarks & Clean up
With the BRED Staff Collective

5:00 -7:00 PM. Happy Hour at Red Emma's
Join us at Red Emma's for a chance to mingle and connect. The address is 1225 Cathedral St, Baltimore, MD.

*Schedule & content are subject to change.