By the International Cooperative Entrepreneurship Think Tank (ICETT)
The International Cooperative Entrepreneurship Think Tank (ICETT), an initiative of the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA), has released its latest report exploring the benefits of cooperatives to members, communities, and society at large.
The report breaks down cooperative benefits into four categories: direct and indirect benefits to members, benefits to local communities, and contributions to national and global development agendas, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It draws from case studies and insights shared by large cooperatives across sectors and countries. Through real-life examples and best practices, the report provides a rich foundation for developing actionable recommendations that cooperatives around the world can adopt to strengthen their impact.
ICETT underscores the importance of cooperative identity as a strategic asset, grounded in democratic governance, shared ownership, and community reinvestment. The findings highlight how cooperatives deliver long-term value through inclusive business models, sustainable practices, and social impact.
Prof Hans Groeneveld, the former Chairperson of ICETT, said: “The report addresses an important challenge for cooperatives today: maintaining their distinctiveness. The point is that there is a considerable degree of isomorphism. Firms with different ownership structures are more and more mimicking each other, either because of their own strategic considerations or forced by market forces, regulation pressures, etcetera. It is a major challenge especially for large cooperatives to be and remain distinctive in this environment of forces. Active member participation and a strong sense of ownership are essential to uphold the cooperative identity. The key is that their member-based governance must function well. Enough members must retain a sense of ownership in large cooperatives and participate actively in democratic processes.
“By preserving these characteristics and expanding their focus to benefit broader communities, cooperatives can become even stronger agents of change in a world facing growing inequality and social fragmentation. In doing so, they not only reaffirm their values but also contribute meaningfully to building a more equitable and resilient society.”
Thomas Blondeel, the new Chair of ICETT, said “it was an honour to contribute to the report," which, he believes, clearly illustrates the everyday benefits of cooperative entrepreneurship. He noted that while those involved in cooperatives already understand their value, the report offers a broader audience an insight into the model’s potential to create and redistribute welfare more equitably. Highlighting the importance of democratic control and shared ownership, Blondeel described cooperatives as “companies worth fighting for”—peacefully. He also emphasised that cooperatives provide an inclusive and ready-to-use alternative to extractive business models, where stakeholders' interests are better aligned and voices are heard. For him, this report reinforces the need to keep spreading awareness about cooperatives as a business model rooted in values, solidarity, and social cohesion.
ICETT also points out that strategic communication plays a key role in articulating the cooperative difference, particularly in competitive markets where value-based branding is increasingly common.
In addition to the report, ICETT continues to support major initiatives such as the Principle6.coop platform, the World Cooperative Monitor, and a climate-smart development program, reinforcing cooperatives’ relevance in today’s most pressing challenges.
Read the full report: https://ica.coop/en/icett
Photo: ICETT members
