Co-operative enterprises benefit communities by instilling local resilience and participation, as well as more local spending, creativity and development. The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, has proclaimed October 15 to October 21 as Co-op Week throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.
Co-operative’s are an innovative business model used to support a variety of opportunities. Minister Parsons was joined today by Shannon Fraser, Vice-President of the Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives (NLFC) to sign a proclamation at the Confederation Building.
The Department of Industry, Energy and Technology works closely with co-operatives in an effort to help individuals and purpose-led businesses start, grow and make a meaningful impact. Through its work with the NLFC and co-operatives in the province, the department aims to build strong community-based enterprises that nurture the sustainability of communities throughout the province.
Earlier this year, a Memorandum of Understanding was renewed between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the NLFC. This MOU focused on research and opportunity identification, training, financing and public awareness and support. This is part of the Provincial Government’s ongoing commitment to advance co-operative development in the province.
Through the Community Capacity Building program, as well as the Regional Development Program, the department supports co-operatives and other community-based economic development organizations to enhance skills and implement projects essential to regional economic planning and development. Groups interested in learning more about the co-operative business model and available opportunities should contact their local Industry Energy and Technology office.
The purpose of National Co-op Week is to both reflect on the contributions the co-operative sector has made to the lives of Canadians and celebrate the impact that co-operatives have in our communities.
Quotes
“I applaud the co-operatives and social enterprises that are leading the way in community economic development throughout the province. Through our partnership with the NLFC, we will continue to support and promote the co-operative business model to help individuals and purpose-led businesses start, grow and make a meaningful impact.”
Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“For 75 years, the Newfoundland & Labrador Federation of Co-operatives has been supporting the co-operatives of our province representing over 100,000 members! This Co-op Week, we assert that ‘CO-OP’S MEAN BUSINESS!’ While driven by social benefits like quality of life for members and their shared communities, economic goals of profitability and providing jobs are equally prioritized. Co-operative businesses are ensuring a future for our province!”
Dave Walsh
Managing Director, Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives
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Learn more
Community Capacity Building
Newfoundland-Labrador Federation of Co-operatives
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