What is a Co-op?

A co-operative (or co-op) is a member-owned and democratically controlled organization that exists to meet the common needs and aspirations of its members. Unlike traditional businesses that aim to generate profit for shareholders, co-operatives prioritize people over profit and operate based on shared values and principles.

• Member-Owned: The people who use the co-op’s services (like housing, food, or banking) are also its owners.

• Democratic Control: Each member has one vote, regardless of how much they contribute financially. This ensures equal say in decisions.

• Not-for-Profit Ethos: While co-ops can generate surplus income, it’s usually reinvested into the organization or returned to members, not external investors.

• Community-Focused: Co-ops often aim to benefit their local communities and promote sustainability, education, and social justice.

• Values-Driven: Co-operatives are guided by values like self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, and solidarity.

Democratic control: Every member has equal voting power, regardless of how much money they contribute.

Focus: Prioritizes people over profit—decisions are made based on what benefits the community.

Example: In the Cork Student Housing Co-op, whether you're a first-year student or a founding member, your vote carries the same weight in decisions about rent, sustainability policies, or leadership roles.

Shareholder control: Voting power is based on the number of shares owned—those who invest more money have more influence.

Focus: Prioritizes profit for shareholders—decisions are often made to maximize returns, not necessarily to benefit all stakeholders equally.

Example: In a private student housing company, a large investor could have the final say on rent increases or eviction policies, even if it negatively affects students.

This is a student-led housing co-operative in Cork City that aims to provide affordable, ethical, and democratically run housing. It introduces students to co-operative living, where they share responsibilities, make decisions together, and live in a supportive, community-oriented environment.

Joining a co-operative (like the Cork Student Housing Co-op) offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond just affordable services. Here’s why becoming a member of a co-op can be a powerful and rewarding choice:

1. Affordable Living

Co-ops are not-for-profit, meaning they aim to cover costs, not generate profit. This often results in lower rents or service fees compared to private providers.

2. Democratic Control

You have a real voice in how things are run. Every member gets one vote, and decisions are made collectively: whether it’s about rent, painting the walls, DIY, sustainability practices, or community events.

3. Community and Belonging

Co-ops foster a strong sense of community, mutual support, and shared responsibility. You’re not just a tenant or customer; you’re part of a collective working toward shared goals.

4. Skill Building and Education

Being part of a co-op gives you hands-on experience in governance, budgeting, conflict resolution, sustainability, and leadership: skills that are valuable in life and work.

5. Ethical and Sustainable Living

Co-ops often prioritize environmental sustainability, social justice, and ethical practices. You can live in a way that aligns with your values.

6. Resilience and Stability

Because co-ops are member-run and mission-driven, they tend to be more stable and responsive to members’ needs: especially during housing or economic crises.

7. Be Part of a Movement

Joining a co-op means contributing to a global movement for economic democracy, housing justice, and community empowerment.

Pictured below: members from the European Student Co-operative Housing Association in Geneva 2024.

Got Questions? Want to Get Involved?

We’d love to hear from you! Whether you're curious about co-operative housing or eager to join our team; reach out to us!

Email us at: corkstudenthousingcooperative@gmail.com