Are you an entrepreneur exploring business models that align profit with purpose? This workshop introduces the co-operative business model as a powerful option for starting or transitioning a business. Learn about the origins and principles of co-ops, how they create both financial and social impact, and how their democratic structure supports long-term sustainability. We’ll also explore co-operatives as a strategy for business succession and how to assess whether the co-op model is the right fit for your venture.
Ideal for entrepreneurs at any stage, this session will equip you with the foundational knowledge to consider co-operatives as a viable, values-driven path in your business journey.
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About Michelle
Michelle Christmann is the Education Manager at the Ontario Co-operative Association, with over 13 years of experience in the co-operative and credit union sector. She has held roles such as Community Relations Manager at a credit union in Eastern Ontario where she was honoured with the Ontario Co-operative Association’s Co-operative Spirit Award, and Coordinator at Gay Lea Foods Co-operative’s Dairy Museum and Co-operative Education Centre, where she focused on youth education and worked closely with the Co-operative Young Leaders program. Michelle has introduced thousands of high school students to the co-operative business model and regularly develops and delivers co-operative education, training, and awareness sessions to students, the public, and co-op staff, directors, and members. Her passion for co-operative values also extends to writing, she is the co-author of several children’s books set in the fictional town of “Co-operNation,” which explore themes of community, collaboration, and shared success.
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Work(shop) with us Wednesdays: Join us to co-work and learn by taking advantage of our free hot desks at the SDG Idea Factory every Wednesday.
