The government has announced an ambitious target to double the size of the co-operative sector. Given this commitment, and at the start of the International Year of Co-operatives, the Future Co-ops 2025 conference will get to grips with what doubling the sector actually looks like.
The time is now! Let’s not miss the boat (again). Join us for two days of lively discussion and debate.
So many questions, so little time.
The government has announced an ambitious target to double the size of the co-operative and mutual sector and to work with the movement to address the barriers we face, such as accessing finance. But what does doubling even mean? Doubling the number of co-ops? The turnover? The number of people that are members of a co-op? Are we being asked to do the impossible?
What is the commitment from the government? Will they be putting their money where their mouth is?
Throughout ‘The Trouble with Double’ we’ll consider what the challenge of doubling the sector actually looks like. Measuring the impact of this growth is crucial. Should we focus on financial metrics or should we be aiming for social impact over simple quantity, staying true to the values and principles of the co-operative movement. Amongst others, Co-operatives UK are working on a response to the doubling opportunity in their Co-operative Growth Strategy – planned for a January release. So, this timely conference will build on that and bring delegates with experience and expertise together to push things forward, from strategy to action!
Who should be driving the agenda? Can we create a legacy that outlasts a change in government?
Join us at Future Co-ops 2025 for two days of lively discussion and debate as we get to grips with this challenge:
- We’ll explore whether we should be prioritising numbers, or looking at the quality and scale of impact.
- Will we have the most success in replicating successful co-ops, or enhancing existing ones?
- Should we focus on converting established entities into co-operative models?
- Which sectors are most in need of co-operative solutions and where could they have the biggest impact? Housing, energy, and care are prime candidates, given their pressing needs and the availability of statutory funding. But should we also consider untapped sectors or more innovative ideas?
- How will people recognise the impact of co-ops in their daily lives, and how do we ensure these initiatives are worth investing in?
While Friday night will be spent setting the scene, Saturday will be a day of interactive workshops to provide a platform for attendees to discuss strategies for seizing the opportunity.
Location and Date
The Conference is being hosted at Central Co-op’s Support Centre, in Lichfield city centre, from 5pm on Friday 31st January and 9am until 4pm on Saturday 1st February.
Address: Queen Street, Lichfield, WS13 6QS
Panel and Workshops
We’ll have a range of input from members within the Co-operative Party and wider movement. Friday sees a panel with representatives of the Co-op Party at all levels, and on Saturday themed workshops will dig deep into the key issues, with plenty of time for discussion and debate.
Dinner
Attendees have the opportunity to join us for the conference dinner on Friday evening, and after-dinner entertainment!
Booking
Booking and further details, can be found on the Eventbrite booking page:
Friday only (inc dinner) – £60
Saturday only (inc lunch) – £100
Both days (Friday inc dinner + Saturday inc lunch) – £155
All prices include food, VAT and booking fees.
Accommodation
The Conference cost does not include accommodation, and attendees will need to book their own if staying over.
Previous Events
Want to see what Future Co-ops is all about? Take a look at our round up of #FC2C – From Crisis to Co-op.