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What Are Worker Co-Ops?

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Definition: Worker Co-Ops

A worker cooperative, or worker co-op, is a business owned and democratically controlled by the people who work there. Unlike traditional companies where power rests with executives and shareholders, high-level decisions in co-ops are made by the workers themselves.

A Growing Movement

According to the 2023 Democracy at Work Institute report, the number of worker co-ops in the U.S. has grown by over 20% in just two years and has tripled in the last decade. Today, there are over 750 known co-ops in the U.S., with estimates of up to 1,300 open.

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Deep Roots In History

Worker co-ops may seem new, but they've been around for centuries. In 1806, Philadelphia shoemakers formed a cooperative boot and shoe factory after being charged with "criminal conspiracy" for trying to unionize. In 1842, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling, affirming the right to strike and form unions.

Where We Fit In

EconChangers is building a crowdfunding platform and support network to help launch and sustain worker-owned businesses. Our mission is to put power and profit back in the hands of employees by replacing top-down control with democratic, worker-focused management. All EconChangers Co-Ops will guarantee the following worker-first policies:

Our Services

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FlockTank

In the FlockTank, investors are community-driven flamingos, not bloodthirsty sharks. FlockTank connects new co-ops and existing business owners with investors who support worker ownership. Garner funding and find interested job candidates from one campaign.

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FlockWorker

FlockWorker sets the rhythm of EconChangers Co-Ops by integrating business operations and analytics into one core system. We provide free on-demand training resources and consultation opportunites with experts. We aim to establish relationships with existing open-management and cooperative-friendly groups, such as Missouri's own Great Game of Business and GRITT Business Coaching.

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FlockList

FlockList is the marketplace to shop co-op. Configure bids for opening co-ops to hire you with their investments. Integration with your products allows anyone to add your FlockListing to their cart.

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Proof Crowdfunding Works

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Existing Crowdfunding Platforms

Though still relatively new, crowdfunding has already reshaped how startups raise capital. Platforms like StartEngine and WeFunder show just how powerful this model has become:

  • StartEngine reported its biggest quarter ever in Q1 2025, with $30 million in revenue. Across its platform and acquisitions, more than $1.4 billion has been invested.
  • WeFunder raised $924 million between 2012 and 2021, backing several startups through community investment.

What Makes Us Unique

We're building on this momentum with a unique focus: empowering workers and communities to maintain control of their businesses. By combining crowdfunding with a business operations platform designed for co-ops, EconChangers aims to become the leader in community-driven startup funding, putting power and profit back into workers' hands.

How to Get Involved

EconChangers is more than a platform - it's a movement. Whether you're starting a business, investing in one, or simply showing support, there's a role for you.

For Entrepreneurs

Got a business idea? We'll help you refine your plan, register your co-op, raise capital, and access the tools to keep your business strong.

For Investors

Want your money to support ethical, worker-first businesses? With EconChangers, you can invest directly in startups that value employees and communities.

For The Public

You don't have to launch or invest to make an impact. Shop at EconChangers Co-Ops, voice your feedback, or spread the word on social media.