Who is this event for?

Current cooperative members who want to strengthen their governance and management practices. Entrepreneurs and organizers interested in starting a cooperative business. Nonprofit, labor, and community leaders exploring democratic approaches to management. Students and practitioners of cooperatives.

What is the purpose of this workshop series ?

The purpose of this workshop series is to strengthen the practice of democratic management in cooperative businesses by providing members, leaders, and aspiring co-op entrepreneurs with the knowledge, tools, and skills to build transparent, inclusive, and accountable organizations.

Multiple dates

The Art of Democratic Management at Cooperative Businesses

By Boston Center for Community Ownership

Learn tools for democratic management in co-ops: governance, communication, conflict resolution & collective decision-making.

Location

The Village Worcester

4 King Street Worcester, MA 01610

Agenda

2:00 PM - 2:30 PM

Building the Foundations of Democracy at the Workplace

This session focuses on the interpersonal skills and practices that form the backbone of democratic management. Participants will explore the importance of trust, active listening, and collaboration,...

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Navigating Interpersonal Challenges at the Speed of Trust as a Team

Learn how to handle conflicts constructively and understand the rights and responsibilities of co-op membership. This theme emphasizes accountability, fairness, and shared ownership, providing tools ...

3:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Practicing Democracy at the Workplace

Dive into the practical aspects of democratic management, including governance structures, decision-making models, and best practices for effective collaboration. Participants will gain actionable st...

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Highlights

1 hour, 30 minutes
In person
Free venue parking

About this event

Business • Startups

Democratic management is at the heart of every thriving cooperative business. This workshop explores the skills, tools, and practices that make shared governance work in real life. Together, we’ll cover interpersonal communication, community agreements, conflict resolution, feedback practices, member rights and responsibilities, governance structures, and decision-making models.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how to balance structure with participation, how to navigate conflicts productively, and how to foster a culture of trust and accountability. Whether you are a current co-op member, considering starting one, or simply interested in more democratic approaches to management, this session offers practical strategies and best practices to strengthen people-centered organizations.

Organized by

Boston Center for Community Ownership

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