What is a Worker Cooperative?
A worker cooperative is a business that’s owned and self-managed by its workers, rather than a handful of founders or outside shareholders. The workers own the business, participate in its financial success on the basis of their labor contribution, and make up, as well as vote for, the board of directors. The profits of the company are locally-owned, creating a stable local economy for the community.
Our Cooperative Structure
The Sound Co-op is a legally recognized worker-owned co-operative, distinct from a for-profit or non-profit company, as well as from a collective. Members each own the business and work together on co-op decisions, information exchange, shared assets, and making sure we do the best job possible for our clients. We run our systems through direct workplace democracy and consensus decision-making, each member having a vote. Members work managerial and administrative positions internally, and are each an integral part of the cog that makes us run smoothly and that that allows for the most focus and followthrough in our work. Members can also apply to be board members, and the board convenes on decisions that affect the livelihood of the cooperative.
Our Cooperative Tiers
Worker-Members are full-time employees/owners of the cooperative. They bought in, receive patronage disbursements, have full voting and economic rights in the cooperative, and can serve on the board.
Contractors work with the Co-op frequently but also do work for other companies. This group has economic rights in the cooperative but do not share in year-end patronage distribution or voting.
Interns and Trainees work for the co-op in exchange for training and experience.
The Worker-Owned Cooperative Movement:
Our goal is to be part of a social and economic movement aimed at supporting, creating, and developing cooperatives. We believe that collective ownership will help bring about a more just and sustainable economy and will champion the rights of and empower the worker. If you’d like to know more, get in touch at info@soundcoop.tv
Worker Cooperative Resources:
https://www.usworker.coop/home/
https://icagroup.org/
https://nycworker.coop/home/
