We invited some updates from participants in last year’s Summit to share the latest news. Cecilia Johnson of Cooperation Buffalo offers this update:
What are some cooperatives you work with that New Yorkers should know more about?
Rose Jade Consulting is a worker owned cooperative that specializes in Facilitation and Planning, Training and Political Education, Political and Campaign strategy development, and Organizational Development. They welcome clients from all over the US and NYS!
Farmer Pirates Compost is a worker owned cooperative that collects food scraps and turns them into compost! Last year they contracted with the City of Buffalo for a residential food waste program for 2,000 residents. This program has officially been expanded to include an additional 2,000 residents per year for the next three years. Farmer Pirates is a great example of how cooperatives can leverage municipal contracts to grow their business!
What do you see happening in the economy that is moving people to explore cooperatives?
Last week we had the distinct pleasure of speaking with small business owners about their succession plans. In partnership with the Buffalo SBDC and SBA at Buffalo State University, our invited guests Christa Daring from @bred.baltimore and attorney Jonathan Johnsen joined Mike Zak of @coopbuffalo to discuss the process of transitioning a company to employee ownership. We’re excited to help workers become owners, keeping important businesses and good jobs rooted in our community!
What is a recent moment you’ve personally seen cooperation in action?
The Crossroads Coalition – a local collective of 10 grassroots organizations working toward a Just Transition in Buffalo – is proud to announce the establishment of Crossroads Community Fund that will directly benefit frontline communities in the City of Buffalo. Approximately $1 million a year will be distributed through three grant programs over the next 10 years.
Learn more at https://www.cooperationbuffalo.org/
New York Cooperative Summit 
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