For 38 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.
CDS is registered to accept tax-deductible donations for its clients in all states across the nation, and helps co-ops reach their respective fundraising goals and expand their presence within their communities.
What We Do Best
- Cooperative Startups and Education
- Cooperative Local Foods Systems
- Cooperative Business Development
- Cooperative Capitalization
To talk to us about your specific project,
Contact Us.
Want to know what’s needed to successfully start a co-op? Download our Co-op 101 Tutorial.
Leslie Watson: Our New Executive Director
We are excited to announce the selection of Leslie Watson as our new Executive Director. Leslie begins her new role this November, in close coordination with the previously announced retirement of outgoing Executive Director…
Kevin Edberg Retirement Celebration
Tuesday, October 15. 4:30-8:00 PM Please join us for our 2nd Annual Co-op Month Celebration! This is the Co-op Party you will not want to miss! This year’s celebration will include…
Employee Ownership Webinar for Business Owners
In cooperation with the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation, Cooperative Development Services, the University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives, the Minnesota Center for Employee Ownership, and the Wisconsin Center for Employee Ownership, a postcard mailing was…