CDF News

Spending time with my college-age children over the holidays, I reflected on my hopes for them. I want them to be able to pursue their passions or address challenges they see; build strong relationships and give back to their communities; have an income that allows them to meet their needs and the security of financial assets; and feel empowered to shape their future. Fundamentally, these are the things that I want for all people. At the Cooperative Development Foundation , w

The Cooperative Development Foundation (CDF) is delighted to announce the addition of three new members to its Board:  Vanessa Bransburg  of the Democracy at Work Institute (DAWI),  Jeffrey Connor  of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), and  Leslie Hagele  of CoBank .   “Over the past year, the CDF Board of Directors developed an exciting strategic framework  for the next five years,” said John Holdsclaw IV, chair of the CDF Board. “We are pleased to

Did you know that the Cooperative Development Foundation has been building the capacity of the cooperative business community since 1944? CDF provides grants for cooperative development and education every year. We could be supporting your co-op work! Check out the opportunities below and save the date for exciting events we are hosting in the new year. Our 2025 Impact Grant and Scholarship Opportunities The Cooperative Development Fund supports cooperative development, resea

November 24, 2025 Next year the co-op community in the U.S. will be honoring five outstanding cooperative leaders. Join us in welcoming these cooperative heroes into the Cooperative Hall of Fame on October 8, 2026, at the National Press Club in Washington, DC.   The inductees are Margaret Bau, Cooperative Development Specialist, USDA Rural Development (retired); Fannie Lou Hamer, Unsung Hero, Founder, Freedom Farm Cooperative; Crystal Long, President & CEO, GECU; Kevin Still,

As the seasons change and we approach Thanksgiving, I am reflecting on my first ten months as Executive Director of the Cooperative Development Foundation . We are proud to announce a new strategic framework for CDF focused on building the capacity of the US cooperative business community. And I am grateful for the generosity and collaboration of the cooperative field as we embark on this exciting next chapter. Together, we will work to ensure that all people can address the

Montana grows a lot of food: livestock for meat and dairy, wheat, lentils, and more. One out of every six Montanans work in agriculture. Yet, Montana communities struggle with access to food as more and more grocery stores close their doors. Losing a rural store can mean families have to drive 60-100 miles for groceries. Tracy McIntyre, Executive Director of the Montana Cooperative Development Center (MCDC) , says local grocery stores are “the last line of defense for thes