Call For Speakers

Call For Speakers 

About the CWCF 2026 Virtual Conference 

The Canadian Worker Co-op Federation (CWCF) is excited to host the CWCF 2026 Virtual Conference: Building Resilient Worker Co-operatives. The world today is in crisis, and worker co-ops are not immune. How do we attain safety amidst uncertainty, profitability amidst precarity, and grow and change so we can not just survive but thrive? The answer lies in building resilient worker co-ops that can help us find our footing on uneven ground and prepare ourselves for the journey ahead.

The 2026 CWCF Worker Co-op Conference will take place online, from November 3 to 5, 2026. 

Daily schedule: 12 pm – 1:30 pm ET and 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm 

Why Present

As a presenter, you will gain valuable experience while you provide topical support for CWCF members and guests.

Topics & Themes: 

The CWCF virtual Conference includes workshops, panel discussions, and we are open to other formats. 

Although not an exhaustive list, we have identified some suggested topics based on previous years feedback as follows:

  • Finance and Co-operative Enterprises 
  • Funding Opportunities (with particular interest in funding for worker co-operatives with members from Equity Denied Groups)
  • Strong Operations 
  • Worker co-op compensation and measurements for worker labour contributions (work and governance)
  • Participatory governance and collaboration
  • Recruiting and integrating diverse members
  • Member engagement
  • Communications-focused workshop on harmonizing messaging about worker co-ops, and addressing common misconceptions/FAQ
  • Relationship building with stakeholders (members and customers)
  • Workshop highlighting co-operation among co-operatives or movement building
  • Mentorship for the next generation of co-op developers
  • Marketing your co-op values
  • Conflict management
  • Technology in worker co-operatives
  • Managing in uncertain economic times

Selection Criteria

  • Relevance to Conference theme and/or fit within desired topics
  • Relevance and appeal to worker co-operators
  • Clarity and completeness of the proposal (what you will be presenting and how)
  • The degree to which the presentation is based on current worker co-op experiences
  • The degree to which the presentation topic and key points reflect a diversity of perspectives and a commitment to justice, equity, diversity, decolonization, and inclusion (JEDDI)
  • The degree to which the presentation is engaging and participatory for an online audience 
  • Useable takeaways for worker co-ops that members can implement or use with their co-op.

Apply

If you are interested in presenting, please apply through this form by June 30, 2026. 

Timeline

  • Apply by June 30th, 1016
  • The Selection Committee will meet to review applications 
  • You will be notified in mid to late July if you are chosen to present.
  • Once accepted, you will be asked to register by October 1, 2026

Contact

To get more information, please email Operations and Member Services Manager at communications[AT]canadianworker[DOT]coop.