Cooperative Regions
Regions Where Cooperation Is Already Culture
Some areas are already strong in co-op activity, shared ownership models, and community-led alternatives. These regions offer fertile ground for those looking to relocate or start fresh.
This page highlights places where the energy for cooperation is already present, so you don’t have to start from scratch.
Mondragón, Basque Country, Spain
Home to the world’s most famous federation of worker co-ops, Mondragón is a small town where cooperative principles have shaped everything from factories to finance to education.
Emilia-Romagna, Italy
This region has one of the highest concentrations of co-ops in the world.
Co-operatives here operate across agriculture, housing, manufacturing, and healthcare, with strong cultural and legal support.
Hull, England
A growing hub of community ownership and co-op organising,
Hull has seen a rise in cooperative housing, local food projects, and anchor institutions working together to protect public assets.
Preston, England
Known for the “Preston Model,” this city focused on localising wealth through community wealth building.
While not all initiatives are co-ops, the approach supports worker ownership and local procurement.
Cleveland, Ohio, USA
The Evergreen Co-ops in Cleveland have pioneered worker co-ops linked to anchor institutions like hospitals and universities, showing how co-ops can build wealth in marginalised communities.
Québec, Canada
With a strong legal framework and widespread public support,
Québec has developed co-ops in sectors from childcare to energy.
Its solidarity co-op model blends social and economic goals.