Feasibility Study on a Commercial Cleaning Cooperative in Washington, DC

In 2003 the CDF Fund made a $20,000 grant to the National Cooperative Business Association for a feasibility study on the prospects for a commercial cleaning cooperative that would create a model cooperative and quality employment opportunities for low-income residents in Washington, DC.  The study concluded that it would be a difficult endeavor because of weak commercial demand, intense competition, adverse cost structure, and the need for a large up-front investment and a large guaranteed contract.  To be successful it would require a large investment and a large guaranteed contract up front.  To read the study, Click Here.

WoodWorks’ Business Plan

In 2001 the CDF Fund made a $20,000 grant to WoodWorks! to write a business plan.  WoodWorks! is the sustainable forestry initiative of CooperationWorks! and the National Network of Forest Practitioners.  Its mission is to help transform American’s private forestland and marginal farmland into sustainable, productive resources by promoting and assisting cooperative action among farmers and other rural landowners.  WoodWorks! does not conduct projects but serves as a forum for members who are working on forestry projects.  For example, NNFP conducted a series of webinars in 2010, which can be seen at http://www.nnfp.org/Resources/Presentations.htm.