Join us for an engaging session as we explore the cooperative business model: what it is, how it works, and why more people are turning to co-ops as a way to build a more just and sustainable economy. We’ll discuss the core principles behind cooperatives, how they differ from traditional businesses, and what makes them such a compelling alternative today.

Whether you're starting a business or just curious about different ways of organizing, work, and ownership, this event is for you. You'll hear from people who are actively building co-ops, including special guests from Solid State, a nonprofit based in Surrey, BC that supports a network of more than 32 co-ops working in fields ranging from farming to health care.

You’ll also hear about Wasl, a collaboration between Solid State and Hive12 that is focused on supporting Tunisian women from economically vulnerable or marginalized communities. Wasl is working to train women as entrepreneurs and help them start and grow cooperative businesses. Through workshops, mentorship, and hands-on support, the project aims to launch two women-led co-ops.

Speakers include:

Ichraf Jarray - Event Host, Hive12 Founder & Wasl Project Lead

Eya Rziga - Event co-host, Marketing & communication intern, Hive12

Matt Hern – Solid State Co-Founder

Mahado Mohamed Hassan – Wasl Project Lead (Solid State) & Co-founder of Afiya Care Collective

Syed Khawar – Co-op Developer at Solid State

This is a great chance to connect with others interested in cooperative work, share ideas, and imagine new ways of doing business. Come be part of the conversation and the movement.

Reserve your spot today.