The Case for Cooperatives in the Central Coast

The current system is working exactly how it is supposed to. The rich are getting richer, wages are stagnant, and wealth trickles down to bottom. We have reached a point in our current economic system that requires a shift in our economy. The concept of cooperatives emerges as a beacon of hope, promising not just financial stability but also activating change and community resilience. Futuro, demonstrates the transformative power of cooperatives, particularly in rural Latine immigrant communities.

“Futuro is not just a program; it’s a commitment to building income and wealth for those who often find themselves left out of traditional economic structures. ”

Futuro is not just a program; it's a commitment to building income and wealth for those who often find themselves left out of traditional economic structures. By establishing itself as a worker-owned cooperative incubator and accelerator, Futuro is not only creating businesses but also nurturing a culture of ownership and change among the community.

At the center of Futuro's vision is the integration of democratically owned business structures into the regional economic landscape. This approach ensures that decision-making power is distributed equitably among participants, establishing a sense of ownership and accountability that goes beyond just employment.
Futuro will serve as an overarching LLC owned and managed by its member worker-owned cooperatives. This structure promotes collaboration and solidarity among member cooperatives and ensures that the benefits of collective ownership are maximized.

As Futuro rolls out its initiatives, Ventures will play a pivotal role in building a robust ecosystem to support cooperative development. From facilitating market access to providing community education and outreach, Ventures will serve as the backbone for creating an environment where cooperatives can thrive.
Moreover, Futuro's emphasis on policy advocacy around procurement and worker pathways is instrumental in creating an enabling environment for cooperative growth. By engaging with policymakers and advocating for supportive regulations, Futuro is not only building businesses but also shaping the broader economic landscape in favor of cooperative businesses.

In conclusion, the case for cooperatives is compelling and exciting for Central Coast Latine working-class families. By developing a culture of community ownership, promoting democratic decision-making, and building a supportive ecosystem, cooperatives have the potential to transform not just individual families but entire communities. As we look towards the future, initiatives like Futuro remind us that another economic system is possible — one where everyone thrives regardless of zip code, race, gender, or immigration status.