Building a Cooperative Economy, One Business at a Time
We train young people as cooperative fellows who help convert struggling small businesses into thriving worker-owned cooperatives. Join the movement for economic democracy.
Economic Justice Through Cooperation
Incoopator is a youth-led initiative reimagining how local economies work. We believe that when workers own their workplaces, communities thrive.
Our Mission
To train and deploy young cooperative fellows who help transition struggling small businesses into sustainable, worker-owned cooperatives—creating jobs that can not leave their communities.
Our Vision
A future where every community has access to cooperative ownership, where wealth stays local, and where young people lead the charge toward economic democracy.
For Youth, By Youth
We believe young people have the energy, creativity, and commitment to transform our economy. Our fellows bring fresh perspectives and deep dedication to every project.
“Cooperatives are not just businesses—they are communities of people working together toward shared goals.”
How Incoopator Works
Our three-step approach transforms both fellows and businesses, creating lasting change in local economies.
Learn
Cooperative Training
Fellows complete an intensive training program covering cooperative principles, business analysis, financial literacy, community organizing, and facilitation skills.
Match
Business Pairing
We connect trained fellows with local small businesses facing challenges—whether succession planning, financial struggles, or owners looking to retire without closing.
Convert
Cooperativize
Fellows guide the transition process: assessing feasibility, engaging workers, restructuring ownership, and ensuring the new cooperative has the foundation to thrive.
Ready to join the movement?
Applications for our next cohort are now open.
Become a Cooperative Fellow
Join a cohort of passionate young people learning to transform local economies through cooperative ownership.
What Fellows Do
- Conduct business assessments and feasibility studies
- Facilitate worker engagement sessions and voting processes
- Develop transition plans and governance structures
- Provide ongoing support during the conversion process
- Connect businesses with legal and financial resources
- Document and share learnings with the broader movement
Who Can Apply?
Ready to make a difference?
Our next cohort starts in Spring 2026. Apply now to secure your spot and join a community of changemakers.
Apply Now“Being a fellow changed my entire career path. I came in unsure about my future, and left knowing I want to spend my life building cooperative economies. The skills, the community, the purpose—it is unmatched.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? We have got answers. Here is what prospective fellows and business owners most commonly ask us.
For Prospective Fellows
For Business Owners
Still have questions? We would love to hear from you.
Get in touchJoin the Movement
Whether you want to become a fellow, partner with us, or convert your business— we would love to hear from you.
Let us Connect
Fill out the form and our team will get back to you within 48 hours. We are excited to explore how we can work together!