Worker Co-op Knowledge-Sharing Session 2025

Current Status:

Proposal for 500euro budget for session with network for consideration (decision by 3rd February 2025)

Current Proposal with network:

Context

The Chicken Coop Animation Co-Op, an emerging worker co-operative in the creative sector, has recently reached out to our network seeking guidance on their path to incorporation. They've developed their 2025 strategy and are at a crucial stage where peer learning could make a significant difference to their development.

This micro-initiative responds directly to their request for an in-person knowledge-sharing session. The group has specifically expressed interest in learning from experienced co-operators about the practical roadmap to incorporation, and they've indicated a strong preference for face-to-face connection with the wider co-op community.

Their timing aligns well with our network's recent decision to invest our remaining budget in practical, focused projects that create value for our members and the wider co-op ecosystem.

What is the decision you need to make?

To approve funding of €500 from our micro-initiatives budget for a structured knowledge-sharing session between experienced worker co-operators and a group looking to form a new worker co-op.

Why is this important?

This initiative directly supports our network's core purpose by:

• Facilitating direct knowledge transfer between experienced and emerging co-operators

• Supporting the development of new worker co-ops

• Creating valuable connections within our wider co-op ecosystem

• Documenting practical insights that can benefit future co-op developers

Project Details

Format

• 2-hour in-person session in Dublin (where majority of potential participants are based)

• Focused sharing of start-up stories and lessons learned

• Practical Q&A and discussion

• Documentation of key insights for network sharing

Venue

Free venue to be confirmed (options include):

• Phibsborough Co-op Space

• SIPTU

• Unite

• GCC office (Dalkey)

Budget Breakdown

Total requested: €500

Direct Session Costs (€240):

• 4 experienced worker co-operators × 2 hours × €20/hr = €160

• 2 facilitators × 2 hours × €20/hr = €80

Organisating (€120):

• 2 facilitators × 3 hours × €20/hr = €120
  (Covering session planning, participant coordination, and documentation)

Travel Expenses (€140):

• Travel costs for participants (up to €140 total) - a number of participants may travel from Belfast.

Timeline

• Session to be held in February/March 2025

• Full report back to network by March/April 2025

Expected Outcomes

1. Direct support for an emerging worker co-op

2. Documented insights and lessons learned to share with network

3. Strengthened connections between existing and emerging co-ops

4. Practical template for future peer-learning sessions

How will this be documented?

• Session notes and key takeaways will be shared on Loomio

• Brief case study of the emerging co-op's journey

• Practical checklist based on experienced co-operators' insights

What happens if this is approved?

1. Confirm venue and date

2. Finalise experienced co-operator participants (Great Care Co-op, Creative Workers Co-op)

3. Create session structure and materials

4. Hold session

5. Document and share learnings

What are you asking of people in this proposal?

To approve €500 from our micro-initiatives budget to support this knowledge-sharing session.