Building Cooperative Futures in Athens
We believe in the power of cooperation to transform communities. This initiative introduces, trains, and supports the launch of shared services and purchasing cooperatives in Athens–Clarke County—giving everyday people and local businesses new tools for collective success. Together, we’re building opportunities for residents, small businesses, and community leaders to access training, connect with peers, and pilot a cooperative that can meet real needs right here in Athens.
About
About the Georgia Cooperative Development Center
The Georgia Cooperative Development Center (GCDC) empowers communities through cooperative business models. We provide technical assistance, education, and support to new and existing co-ops across the state.
Since our launch, GCDC has provided technical assistance to hundreds and training and supporting startups across multiple industry sectors. We’ve helped organizations to align their business structures with the cooperative values and principles that are the foundation for cooperative enterprises and success in their communities.
With the support of the City of Athens Clarke County, we’re proud to launch anthens.coop, a shared services cooperative training program to empower Athens Clarke County business leaders and community members with a thoughtful solution to many of today’s social challenges, through the cooperative mode
Why Athens–Clarke County?
Athens–Clarke County is a hub of creativity, resilience, and opportunity. With its vibrant mix of small businesses, students, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, Athens is an ideal place to strengthen cooperative solutions.
Yet, like many communities, Athens faces challenges: access to affordable services, stronger workforce pathways, and equitable business growth.
This program addresses those needs by fueling workforce development and community empowerment. It is designed to support:
Local leaders & small businesses seeking shared growth
Students & entrepreneurs building future-ready skills
Residents committed to creating solutions for everyday needs
This program belongs to Athens. Together, we are shaping a cooperative future that creates stability, equity, and long-term prosperity for all who call Athens home.
Program (Grant & Training Process)
Shared Services & Purchasing Cooperative Training Program
With grant funds from Athens–Clarke County, GCDC is rolling out a program that blends education, connection, and action.
Info Sessions
Gather community feedback and assess needs.
Community Forum
Connect participants, build peer support, and share ideas.
Co-op 101 Mini-Course
Learn the basics of cooperatives on-demand.
8-Week Training (Launching January)
Dive deep into cooperative development.
Pilot Cooperative Launch
Put knowledge into practice and create a real co-op.
This is more than training—it’s a chance to lay the foundation for a cooperative that strengthens Athens for years to come.
Who It’s For
Is This for You?
This program is open to residents, small business owners, nonprofits, students, and community leaders in Athens–Clarke County who want to:
Lower costs and strengthen services through collaboration.
Explore how cooperation can create stability and growth.
Build solutions for childcare, health, food access, creative work, digital services, and more.
Connect with others who share a vision for thriving communities.
Whether you are a woman-owned business, BIPOC entrepreneur, veteran, LGBTQIA+ leader, nonprofit organizer, or a resident who believes in working together, this program is for you
Athens Co-op Empowering Communities
A Georgia Cooperative Development Center project, with support from Athens–Clarke County.
Get Involved
Join Athens Co-op Futures Today
If you have questions or would like to learn more, email us at carenshare@georgiacoopdc.org
Here’s how to connect:
- Email us! carenshare@georgiacoopdc.org
- Book a co-op connect call
- Subscribe below for e-news updates, webinars, info sessions
- Listen to upcoming podcasts
- Enroll for the free Shared Services Training Program
Subscribe to our Mailing List
Sponsors
About
The Georgia Cooperative Development Center (GCDC) empowers communities through cooperative business models. We provide technical assistance, education, and support to new and existing co-ops across the state.
Subscribe to our Mailing List
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