About Co-operatives Ireland
What is Co-operatives Ireland?
We are Ireland’s new voice for co-operative, inclusive, and democratic enterprise.
Co-operatives Ireland is a national federation representing co-operatives of all kinds, enterprises owned and governed by the people they exist to serve: their members, employees, suppliers, and communities.
Our mission is to strengthen and grow the co-operative movement, advocate for enabling policy, and build a more democratic and sustainable economy.
Why was Co-operatives Ireland established?
Ireland’s co-operative movement is diverse and dynamic, but until now we have lacked a unified national voice.
Co-operatives Ireland was created to bring that voice together to advocate for modern legislation, supportive policies, and fair access to resources for co-operatives and other inclusive, democratic enterprises.
We aim to make the co-operative model a mainstream choice for communities, workers, and entrepreneurs across Ireland.
What types of organisations do you represent?
We represent co-operatives of every kind including worker, community, producer, housing, and multi-stakeholder co-operatives, alongside other inclusive and democratic enterprises such as employee ownership trusts, mutuals, and community land trusts.
Our role is to unite, promote and advocate for this broad family of inclusive, democratic business models.
Membership
Who can join Co-operatives Ireland?
Membership is open to:
Primary co-operatives and federations of co-operatives
Inclusive and democratic enterprises (such as mutuals, community land trusts, and employee ownership trusts)
Supportive organisations and individuals who share our values
We welcome members from all sectors who are committed to democratic ownership and building community wealth.
Why should our co-operative OR ORGANISATION join?
By joining Co-operatives Ireland, you’ll be part of a national and international movement working to ensure co-operatives have the recognition, support, and policy environment to thrive for their benefit of their members, their communities and our planet.
Membership helps you:
Shape legislation and national policy affecting co-operatives
Connect with other co-operatives and share learning
Build visibility as part of Ireland’s co-operative movement
Stand in solidarity with others building a more inclusive and democratic economy
Joining now means helping to shape how the federation grows and what it stands for.
How DOES MY ORGANISATION BECOME A MEMBER?
Becoming a organisation member is simple and designed to respect your organisation’s governance process.
Complete an expression of interest form - setting out organisation’s support for and interest in joining Co-operatives Ireland.
Progress your membership application - we will work with you to gather the necessary information to finalise your application for review by our Board.
Finalise your membership - once approved by our Board, you will gain full voting rights and participation in the governance of our federation.
There is no financial contribution required at this stage - your engagement and support are what matter most.
How DOES MY INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTER BECOME A MEMBER?
Individuals who share our values and commitment to inclusive democratic ownership are warmly invited to join.
Complete our short membership form to participate in our governance, access learning opportunities, and connect with others building a more inclusive and democratic economy.
Membership is free at this stage and open to anyone who supports the aims and values of Co-operatives Ireland.
Can we join if we already belong to another federation or representative body?
Yes. Co-operatives Ireland is not an exclusive organisation - we believe in co-operation, not competition!
You’re welcome to be part of multiple federations and representative bodies. We seek to work constructively with all organisations that share our values and commitment to an inclusive, democratic economy for all.
Advocacy and Policy
How does Co-operatives Ireland advocate for co-operatives?
We engage directly with government, policymakers, and public bodies to ensure that co-operatives are recognised, supported, and enabled by law and policy.
Our current advocacy focuses on:
Modernising co-operative legislation
Securing accessing to business supports and favourable enterprise policy
Promoting co-operatives as a key part of Ireland’s sustainable economy
Building awareness of the benefits of co-operative enterprise for communities.
Our Policy Platform 2025–2030 sets out detailed, actionable proposals for reform.
How does Co-operatives Ireland work with other organisations?
We believe co-operation should extend beyond co-operatives themselves. We collaborate with other federations, advocacy bodies, and networks where our policies and values align, ensuring a coherent voice for democratic and inclusive enterprise across Ireland.
How are priorities decided?
Our members shape our strategy and advocacy through working groups, consultations, and general meetings. This ensures that our policy positions reflect the real needs of co-operatives and democratic enterprises nationwide.
Strategy and Vision
What is your long-term vision?
Our vision is of an Ireland where co-operative, inclusive, and democratic enterprises thrive in every community and sector contributing to sustainable jobs, stronger local economies, and shared prosperity.
We aim to make co-operatives a recognised and supported cornerstone of national economic and social policy.
What are your strategic goals?
Over the next three years, we’re focused on three key priorities:
Advocacy and Influence – Building a strong national voice for co-operatives in policy and law.
Expansion and Collaboration – Growing an active federation that unites and empowers its members.
Sustainability and Capacity – Establishing a lasting foundation for Co-operatives Ireland’s work.
How can I stay updated?
You can sign up for updates, events, and consultation invitations through our newsletter.
You can contact us below about you or your organisations interest in membership, and sign up for our newsletter at the same time. We’ll return your email as soon as possible.
