About CDF
At the Cooperative Development Foundation (CDF), we work to build capacity for the cooperative business community through grantmaking and programming. Cooperatives come in many forms – large agricultural co-ops, credit unions, neighborhood food co-ops, and worker-owned businesses – but they all share a commitment to meeting community needs, keeping money in the local economy, creating meaningful jobs, and giving people ownership of their businesses. Learn more about cooperatives.
CDF brings new and diverse audiences into the cooperative business community and supports emerging and established leaders through programs like the Cooperative Leaders & Scholars fellowship. We mobilize charitable giving in response to natural disasters and host events that celebrate the cooperative identity such as the Co-op 5k and the Cooperative Hall of Fame, which recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding cooperative leaders. We collaborate with co-op support organizations across the country to connect cooperatives with the funding, education, technical assistance, and research they need to thrive. Through the Cooperative Development Fund and the Cooperative Education Fund, we invest in cooperatives and the organizations that help them grow and build capacity nationwide. And through partnerships at the local and state levels, we learn and share what it takes to build robust and connected cooperative economies.
Partner with us to cultivate the cooperative leaders of the future, strengthen the national co-op support system, and demonstrate the power of cooperative economies.
Headquartered in Washington, DC, CDF is the 501 (c)(3) non-profit affiliate of the National Cooperative Business Association (NCBA CLUSA).
Mission
CDF builds the capacity of the cooperative business community to solve societal challenges, reinforce democratic decision-making, and improve economic opportunities for all.
Theory of Change
Values
Integrity
CDF operates with honesty, respect, and accountability to the cooperative business community.
Equity & Inclusion
CDF values the multiplicity of perspectives in our society and creates space for people to come together across lines of difference.
Collaboration & Openness
CDF welcomes new ideas and actively collaborates – meeting people where they are – to achieve our shared vision.
Solidarity & Social Responsibility
CDF cares for others and stewards our resources to maximize positive impact in society.