The Canadian Worker Co-op Federation (CWCF) offers grants to assist worker co-ops that are, or agree to become, members of CWCF to hire a co-op developer or other professional to help with a challenge that the co-op is facing. Assistance can be sought in any area needed such as marketing, financial administration, governance, conflict resolution, legal issues, etc.
There are currently several grants of up to $3500 available, and we encourage members — or prospective members — to apply for them. Recent recipients of the grants have put them to use in a wide range of areas.
West Arm Woodworking, a fledgling co-op in Nelson, BC, sought the grant for assistance in drafting liability waivers for use of its workshop. The co-op worked with Vancouver lawyer Mary Childs to create the waivers, which worker-owner Danielle Soucie says was a crucial part of their operations.
“It was definitely necessary and we’re super thankful for the grant that we received from CWCF in order to hire her,” says Soucie.
Toronto’s Urbane Cyclist also benefited from a grant, which helped it deal with issues arising from its recent restructuring. Urbane’s Owen Ardal says the chance to work with longtime co-op developer Russ Christianson was a great opportunity.
“It was very helpful and insightful to have him there,” he says.
Applications are currently being accepted on a rolling basis – the application form is available here. For more information, please contact Communications and Member Services Manager Kaye Grant at communications@canadianworker.coop.