This article includes information and approaches for developing ownership cultures that align employee and company interests. Practices discussed can be applied across a range of different ownership structures and draw from the authors’ personal experiences as well as case studies to highlight practical considerations for implementing employee ownership structures. Businesses and business support organizations who are implementing or exploring employee ownership structures may find this resource particularly useful.

Cooperative Home Care Associates (CHCA) is a worker-owned cooperative and employer-based training program that provides home health aide services in New York City’s South Bronx and Northern Manhattan. The cooperative was launched in 1985 as part of a strategy to improve the low-wage occupation of the home health aide. This case study documents the organization’s evolving approach to operating as part of the home health industry, noting its strategies and accomplishments in the areas of improving the quality of jobs, developing career ladders, influencing industry practice and effecting policy change. Details on the organization’s operations and approach to training are also provided.

This is a high-level, generalist guide for starting a worker cooperative or transitioning an existing business. In addition to providing an overview of the principles and function of cooperative ownership, the guide provides an explainer on developing business ideas and decision-making processes. This guide is useful to workers, advocates, and those engaged in outreach to existing values-based employers.