Workers.coop is launching Own The Future, its first co-op support programme for workers leading the transition to a new economy.
Democratic worker ownership is central to building caring, ecological and abundant local economies.
With support from the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, we’re launching our first co-op support programme for workers leading the transition to a new economy.
Own the Future will recruit five groups across the country for a one-year accelerator programme of training, mentoring, specialist advice and peer support.
We are looking for groups with a fully formed idea for an economic activity addressing everyday challenges (like food, housing and retrofit, transport, and care) and who are interested in setting up as a workers co-op.
🦺 What’s involved in the programme?
- Mentorship from cooperative advisors embedded in the movement
- Training sessions from experts in Just Transition
- Regular meet-ups with like-minded cohort of five co-ops, including a residential as part of Worker Co-op Weekend
- Start-up funding of £5,000 (conditional on active participation)
- Bespoke business advice from specialists worth up to £1,000
🖋️ How can groups apply?
The programme starts in March 2026. Groups can register their interest now to receive the application pack.
The deadline to send the application pack is 31 January. Selected groups will be invited for an interview in February.
To recruit our five groups, we will use the following criteria: location and sector, social impact, team skills and experience, business viability, socio-economic background, alignment with co-operative values, commitment and participation.
💡 To find out more
We are running online drop-in information sessions on Monday 12 and Monday 26 January, from 10-12am.
Register or simply drop-in using this link: Zoom meeting link.
For any questions or ideas about the programme, get in touch with Eva at ownthefuture@workers.coop
Spread the word and share with any group you know might be interested🎺
