Amplifying the Power of Co-ops Nationwide
The cooperative model — where groups of individuals band together to run a business, provide a service, or purchase a property — is uniquely suited to empower people to improve their lives and livelihoods. In 1981, Capital Impact was born out of federal legislation to encourage co-op development, with a focus on how co-ops can better support communities living with low incomes. Through our lending, grant funding, and capacity building efforts, we are well positioned to amplify the potential of the co-op model for all people.
Our Co-op Solutions
While the co-op model has flourished in the US, with more than 30,000 cooperative businesses supporting two million jobs and earning over $600 billion in revenue annually, the potential exists for even greater impact. That is why we focused on growing this sector for more than 30 years and helped bridge the gap to better serve low-income populations. In addition to lending, we provide grant funding and practical assistance to co-op developers in the food, worker, and housing sectors.
Co-op Innovation Award
As part of our support for the movement, we are identifying strategic partners and providing them with resources and funding including the Co-op Innovation Award. The award is given each year to two organizations exemplifying leadership in scaling the cooperative model with a focus on low-income communities.
Co-op Financing
We work to finance projects that support affordable housing, education, health care and healthy food access all in close proximity to each other. When successful, those efforts serve to amplify the combined impact of each project and empower residents to improve their lives and livelihoods.
Policy & Partnerships
Leading and participating in national strategic discussions around co-op policy and practice is critical to our work. We also educate our partners on the benefits of cooperative ownership and their role in community development projects.
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Types of Cooperative Models
Worker Cooperatives
Worker co-ops create permanent jobs with living wages and health benefits in industries as varied as solar power and home health care. Worker co-ops have gained traction as a tool to create quality jobs and promote economic growth.
Food Cooperatives
Food co-ops provide access to healthy food, secure jobs, and community gathering points in the neighborhoods they serve. They generally support local food systems and sustainable foods, which keep dollars invested in the local economy.
Housing Cooperatives
Housing cooperatives provide stable, permanent housing that is more affordable than existing options. Co-ops expand opportunities for ownership and empower resident-owners to improve their communities and create wealth.
The Power of Cooperatives
Stories of Impact
Capital Impact Partners is passionate about investing in co-ops. These values-driven businesses align with our mission to build strong, vibrant, and sustainable communities. We hope you are as inspired as we are by some of our co-op development initiatives.
