This session explores how unions and labor councils can strengthen cooperative development through research, staff time, industry expertise, policy advocacy, training programs, and access to benefits. This practical, step-by-step training walks worker-owners and labor partners through the full union co-op process, from laying the groundwork to negotiating a first contract.

12:30PM-1:30PM EST Via Zoom

Participants Will Learn:

How to build internal support and define your “why”

Union neutrality and card check language in bylaws

Choosing the right labor partner (culture, geography, industry fit)

Card check vs. election processes

Negotiating a collective bargaining agreement in a worker-owned firm

How union co-ops balance democracy, HR clarity, and worker protections

How labor partnerships strengthen co-op start-ups

Examples of union support for feasibility studies, organizing, and policy wins

Conversion pathways from union shop to worker ownership

How collective bargaining agreements reinforce cooperative values

Structuring union committees within worker co-ops

Training, apprenticeship, and Taft-Hartley fund opportunities

Ideal Audience: Co-op Developers, existing co-op members, union staff, CLC leaders, academics, labor leaders, funders, economic development agencies, academics, co-op incubators, and organizers exploring the union co-op model.

Cost: $10