Also known as a Capital Campaign,  a Community Investment Campaign is an effort by an organization to raise a significant amount of money in a specified period of time to fund a one-time need. In our case, funding our community-owned grocery store, Free Range Food Co-op (FRFC). 

Cooperative grocery stores look first to their owners to build a solid base of investment and donation. On top of this base, grants, and funds from other sources round out the funding needed to open a store. Because of our unique legal structure, we  have the ability to raise capital from owners through preferred shares and donations. Traditionally, food co-ops raise a significant portion of the capital required to open their doors from owners. In our case, 25% of our funding will come from owners like you.

Capital raised from owners allows owners the opportunity to exercise Cooperative Principle #3: Member Economic Participation  which states members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. It also allows owners the opportunity to invest in our local food system, which builds a more ethical, resilient, and sustainable supply chain and is a unique opportunity for our community. Plus, owner investments are more flexible and less expensive than bank financing, making the co-op financially stronger. In the event that commercial debt becomes a necessity to bridge funding gaps, investments demonstrate a committed customer base and strengthens commercial lenders’ confidence in lending to our project. Owner investments also allow us to apply for grants that require matching funds.

Becoming an owner is the first step to financially supporting the Co-op. As a Free Range Food Co-op owner, the four common shares purchased for $100 come with  benefits including future patronage dividends and voting rights within our democratic organization. One Owner = One Vote. Owners funded outreach and start-up costs and a small percentage of the funds needed to open our store. The second step for owners to financially support the co-op is participation in our Community Investment Campaign.

As an Owner, you have the exclusive opportunity to invest further in your community-owned grocery store, your community, and your values. Owner investments build a loyal customer base and reduce debt service, making the Co-op more resilient. Preferred shares are a significant way for owners to align their values with their  investments and gain the satisfaction of knowing that money is invested locally, increasing the quality of life for our entire community. Preferred shares have the potential to earn dividends, which will be declared at the discretion of the board if/when the co-op is in the financial position to do so.

The benefits of food co-ops extend to the entire community. They serve as more than just a place to purchase good food; co-ops keep more money circulating in their local economy, increase the market and access for locally produced food, and prioritize business practices that are good for people and the planet. No other grocery store business model is so deeply rooted in community. 

While we have little control over what’s happening at a national level or in the stock market, investing in our locally owned food co-op is something we as owners CAN do today for our community. As owners, investing our dollars with the co-op allows us to see our investment at work - right here, right now. It’s a way for us to collectively pool our resources and improve our local economy.  This campaign literally allows co-op owners to invest in “Main Street” rather than “Wall Street.” We need cooperation now more than ever.