Workshops - BC Co-operative Association

Co-operative education is an essential pillar of the BCCA’s organizational mission and purpose. Through our Co-operative Education program, we honour the legacy of the 5th Co-operative Principle: Education, Training, and Information that has catalyzed the growth and development of the co-operative movement since it’s early beginnings.

Workshops For Members

We offer workshops throughout the year where you can learn alongside others who are engaged in the co-operative movement. You can also request a workshop and we can tailor it for your co-op or organization. See our events for upcoming workshops. To request a workshop specific to your co-op, please contact our Education Manager, Madelyn Read, at madelyn@bcca.coop.

Mentorship hour

Mentorship Hour is a virtual learning series designed exclusively for BCCA members. Held every two months, these one-hour sessions connect co-op leaders, practitioners, and subject matter experts to share practical insights and real-world experience.

Each session explores timely topics relevant to co-operatives, including member engagement, sociocracy, grant writing, marketing with limited resources, governance challenges, legal considerations, and more. The focus is practical, peer-driven learning that members can apply directly within their co-ops.

If you’re a BCCA member interested in presenting as a subject matter expert, we welcome you to connect with us at connect@bcca.coop.

Co-ops 101

Co-ops 101 is an introductory workshop designed to build a clear understanding of how co-operatives work and why they are effective business and governance models. This interactive session explores the foundations of co-operation, how co-ops differ from other organizational structures, and the range of co-operative types operating in British Columbia and beyond.

Participants will learn about the history and core principles of co-operatives, review practical examples of co-ops addressing real-world needs, and gain insight into how this model supports shared ownership, democratic decision-making, and long-term sustainability.

Co-operative Governance

Co-operative Governance is a practical workshop focused on how governance works within the unique member-owner structure of co-operatives. Participants will explore the roles and responsibilities of boards and staff, how co-operative governance differs from other organizational models, and what effective governance looks like across co-ops of different sizes and sectors.

The session also examines the principles and practices that support clear decision-making, accountability, and member-focused leadership. Designed for board members, managers, and anyone interested in co-op governance, this workshop offers an opportunity to learn alongside peers and apply insights directly to your own organization.

Member Engagement in Co-ops

As member-owned and governed organizations, co-ops are strongest when they have engaged and informed memberships. In order to fully realize the potential of co-operatives in serving their members and communities, member engagement must be integrated into co-operative practice.

This workshop explores the ways in which member engagement powers the co-operative model, the risks inherent to neglecting engagement, different engagement tools and approaches, and case studies of different co-ops and how they have implemented successful engagement initiatives. This workshop is open to anyone interested in member engagement. It is especially useful for board members, employees, and members of co-operatives.

Have ideas or questions about our co-op education program?

For further information, please contact our Co-operative Education Manager by emailing madelyn@bcca.coop.