Co-operative Development Scotland
Co-operative Development Scotland, part of Scottish Enterprise, supports growth across Scotland through employee ownership and co-operative business models. These models can play a critical role in economic recovery, aligning with the Scottish Government’s aim to create a fairer and stronger economy. Learn how we can help your company achieve more.
Who we are
Co-operative Development Scotland (CDS) supports companies and community groups across Scotland that want to adopt employee ownership or co-operative business models.
We help businesses and community enterprises grow by offering a range of advice and services, including free masterclasses and one-to-one support. We also raise awareness of the benefits of employee ownership and co-operatives through events and the media.
As well as Scottish Enterprise, we work with enterprise agencies across the whole of Scotland. This means our support is also available to those based in the Highlands and Islands and South of Scotland regions.
Team from GUARD Archaeology, an employee-owned business based in Glasgow
How we can help
Thinking about employee ownership or a co-operative business model? CDS can offer one-to-one sessions with a specialist advisor to help you choose the best business model for your needs and set it up. We also provide a range of information, advice and services to help you along the way.
For example, if you’re considering employee ownership, we can provide a feasibility study to help you decide if this is the right choice for your business. If you decide to switch, our specialist advisors can advise you on how to implement the new model.
Find out more about employee ownership
If your business or community is looking to adopt or develop a co-operative business model, we can advise you on feasibility, structure, governance, member engagement and providing the necessary legal documents. We can provide assistance to both start up and existing co-operatives.
Contact our specialists
Get in touch with Co-operative Development Scotland to find out how we can help you with enquiries about employee ownership or co-operative business models.
An introduction to inclusive business models
Do you want to learn more about creating an economy that is fairer, stronger and more democratic as we navigate challenging times for businesses?
Listen to our Reset and Rebuild Podcast
Learn the basics of employee ownership, consortium co-operatives and community co-operatives, and the role they can play in building an economy that puts people and planet before profit.
Get collaborative on social
Find out more about Co-operative Development Scotland and the businesses and co-operatives we support. Check out our blog and social media.
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