Exploring applications of the Nova Scotia co-op development system in B.C. and Alberta

The Phase 2 Working Group, consisting of the Executive Directors of the B. C. Co-operative Association and the Alberta Community & Co-operative Association and two researchers from the Centre for Community Enterprise, held key informant interviews in B. C. (9 participants) and Alberta (9) and discussion group sessions (BC 15; Alberta 14) to solicit feedback on the two research questions, using the [...] Goal, Objectives & Research Questions The goal of this project was to provide the regional co-operative Associations, practitioners and key stakeholders in B. C. and Alberta with tools and strategies, based on the model provided in the Nova Scotia and Quebec case studies, that can translate into action plans for improvement in the co-op development system in the two provinces. [...] The critical gap in the development system however that the provincial associations do not have the provincial government support enjoyed by the 5 NS Co-op Council and Quebec Regional Councils to drive cross-sector alliances (i.e., outside of the co-op sector) or for the targeted promotion and engagement of credit unions. [...] Recommendations The following are recommendations from the Working Group, consisting of the researchers and Executive Directors of the BC and Alberta provincial Associations, based on the input from stakeholders in the interviews and discussion groups. [...] According to the co-op directorate’s website, they offer the following support: In accordance with the Cooperative Development Policy, the Directorate's mission is to foster the emergence and growth of cooperatives and contributes to developing the various sectors of cooperative activity by monitoring and support.