CDS

Cooperative Development Services

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For almost 35 years, we have been at the forefront of sustainable cooperative development in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa.

Cooperative Development Services (CDS) and its 501(c)3 charitable subsidiary, the Cooperative Development Fund of CDS (the Fund) actively support the growth of cooperative businesses at all stages, including long-established co-ops, startups, and co-op conversions in urban and rural communities.  Our programs and services reflect our understanding that a cooperative must be successful both as a democratic association of members AND as an operating business.  We offer analysis, planning, and educational services customized to meet your co-op’s specific needs.  Our technical assistance gives co-ops tools to maximize business opportunities and gain access to necessary capital. View our Program pages to learn more.

What We Do Best

To talk to us about your specific project, Contact Us.

Want to know what’s needed to successfully start a co-op? Review our Co-op 101 Tutorial.

Cooperate to the Max!


We are overjoyed with inquiries to help start cooperatives. 

But, frankly, we could use your help.

This year our aim is to grant one hour of business counseling ($85) to start-ups, with an emphasis on communities using worker ownership and community ownership to retain small businesses.

Please consider making a tax-deductible gift to support our work by donating here!