As the provincial association for Ontario's co-operatives, we have four key objectives for the International Year of Co-operatives: to celebrate co-operatives, to help co-ops showcase their pride and raise awareness for co-operatives, to provide the tools and resources that strengthen and support co-operatives, and to promote and inspire Principle Six: Collaboration among Co-operatives.
On this page, you will find the information to help us and your co-operative maximize the opportunity that the United Nations has bestowed upon us, by declaring 2025 as the International Year of Co-operatives!
Celebrating Co-operatives
Join our Events!
Join our special IYC webinar series, as we explore a new co-operative theme each month! Expand your knowledge, connect with others, and discover fresh ways to collaborate in building a stronger, more inclusive co-operative Ontario for all.
We are also hosting two in-person events - our first since 2019! Join us at our upcoming Networking Event & AGM on May 15 in Guelph ON. Our second event will take place on October 24 in Mississauga ON - stay tuned for details!
Showcasing Co-operative Pride
Purchase our Apparel & Merch!
Wearing and using our apparel and merch is not only a wonderful way to showcase your pride, but also a great conversation starter and way to help raise the profile of co-operatives!
Check out our Apparel & Merch and IYC2025 Shop online for a great variety of well-made products (most of which are fulfilled in Canada). Every purchase promotes the values of community, co-operation, and teamwork - not to mention a better way to do business!
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Strengthening Co-operatives
Use our tools and training opportunities!
Accessing our large variety of digital resources and training programs is only a click away - and one of the key ways we help Ontario's co-operatives grow and thrive!
What better time is there to freshen up on your co-operative knowledge, take some governance training, update your co-operative's By-laws, or talk to us about your co-operative business idea? Whatever support you need, we can provide it - or connect you with the right people who can help.
Inspiring Principle Six
Support Co-operatives!
Consider supporting the co-operatives in your community by purchasing their products and services - and keep your hard-earned dollars in the Canadian economy! Check out our FREE "Choose Co-op!" resource for a comprehensive list of co-operatives in diverse sectors across Canada.
We are also happy to help connect you with other co-operatives and individuals that have special expertise in co-operatives - reach out today!
Other IYC Resources
Co-operatives & Mutuals Canada
Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada (CMC) is the national association that unites, engages, and leads the co-operative and mutualist movement in Canada . They advocate for Canadian co-operatives and are also great resource for all things co-operative and IYC!
Our National Association
International Co-operative Alliance
The International Co-operative Alliance (ICA) is the is the apex body representing co-operatives, which are estimated to be around 3 million worldwide! They provide a global voice and forum for knowledge, expertise and co-ordinated action for and about co-operatives.