Under the theme, “The Cooperative Economy: Grow, Participate, Connect,” IMPACT 2018 will amplify the impact co-ops already have in the U.S. and around the world and explore new ways co-ops can spur even greater economic growth and participation.
This year’s tracks include IMPACT I and II, Purchasing, Co-op Professionals and Cooperative Leaders & Scholars (CLSI). Start planning now to join us in October to help elevate and expand an environment in which people have a greater say in their futures and more equitable access to sustainable jobs and opportunities.
We’re very close to announcing our full conference agenda; in the meantime, here’s a preview of some of the key themes you can expect at IMPACT 2018. Look for session descriptions coming soon for each of these themes and more!
Measuring co-op economic impact
While co-op leaders have a clear sense that cooperatives bring significant economic benefit to the communities in which they do business, quantifying and communicating that benefit often remains a challenge. During our sessions on measuring co-op economic impact, you’ll learn why metrics matter, what types of data to focus on and get an update on federally-reported data expected from the 2017 Economic Census.
Building an inclusive economy
With a focus on the benchmarks of participation and growth, these sessions will explore what the inclusive economy looks like in domestic and international settings. You’ll learn why worker co-op conversions are a viable, scalable strategy for sharing prosperity and how rural electric cooperatives are bridging the digital divide by providing broadband—and with it, greater economic participation—to their customers.
Financing cooperative growth
These sessions include a case study on how steady growth, effective business planning and partnership—coupled with cooperative capital—can lead to strategic, long-term success. You’ll also learn how a community-owned financial institution is broadening financial access and promoting community-based development.
NCBA CLUSA is also offering a one-day add-on to the 2018 Co-op IMPACT Conference called “Demystifying Cooperative Finance” through a partnership with Saint Mary’s University.
Offered October 2, 2018 at a nearly 20 percent discount to IMPACT Conference attendees, “Demystifying Cooperative Finance” is designed to be relevant to technical and non-technical professionals in the co-op sector, including executives, managers, board members and consultants. Learn more about the course here.
To add this course to your IMPACT Conference registration, be sure to select “Saint Mary’s University Executive Education Course” under the “Additional Items” during checkout. Register now for the conference and this bonus course!