Co-operatives in Canada

Co-operative businesses have an important economic role to play in generating jobs and growth in communities across Canada. Existing in every sector of the economy, co-operatives provide needed infrastructure, goods and services to Canadians. In 2021, there were a total of 5,605 active non-financial co-operatives in Canada. They held $47.3 billion in total assets, employed 100,755 people, and paid $2.7 billion in salaries and wages.

Services and information

Information Guide on Co-operatives

Everything you need to know about co-operatives, types of co-operatives and other frequently asked questions.

Creating and maintaining a co-operative

Creating, operating and making changes to a co-operative in Canada.

Kinds of co-operatives

Examples and the differences between the various kinds of co-operatives.

Research and reports

Annual data and research about co-operatives in Canada.

Features

Online training on co-ops in Canada

Learn more about why people start co-ops, how they are created, and their impact on the Canadian economy.