Basque Country Cooperatives Observatory. Taking a close look at ourselves so we can go far.
The Basque Country Cooperatives Observatory is a space for analysis, knowledge and dissemination on the current state of cooperativism in the Basque Country. Promoted by the Higher Council of Cooperatives of the Basque Country – KOOPERATIBEN KONTSEILUA – in collaboration with Orkestra-Basque Institute of Competitiveness, the Observatory has a triple mission:
Impact
Measuring and visualising the impacts of cooperatives on:
· the business fabric
· the economy
· society and individuals
Metrics
To provide a reference platform offering key data for decision-making, public policy design, and the strengthening of the Basque cooperative ecosystem.
Analysis
To examine the current state of cooperatives across multiple dimensions: demographics, employment, innovation, competitiveness, social and territorial impact.
We promote local development based on the cooperative model
Basque cooperativism makes a decisive contribution to the Basque Country through:
Internationalisation
Opening up markets and strengthening a competitive business network.
Territorial balance
Presence in districts and medium-sized towns, strengthening local development.
Basque cooperatives:putting people at the centre, a shared future
A combination of tradition and innovation, competitiveness and human values that today defines an essential part of the Basque Country’s identity.
Involving people
Basque cooperatives are businesses that involve people in ownership, management and profits. Every decision is made democratically, every project is built through collaboration, and every outcome is aimed at the common good.
International leaders
This model has proven to be a driver of local development and an international benchmark. Basque cooperatives lead strategic sectors, innovate continuously, and compete in global markets without losing their roots.
Variety of sectors
Their presence spans industry, education, services and housing, bringing dynamism and diversity to the Basque Country’s economic fabric.
Social cohesion
Beyond the economic dimension, Basque cooperativism is also a tool for social and territorial cohesion. It creates stable, quality employment, promotes equality, strengthens local roots, and opens windows to the world.
Basque cooperatives: local, connected, committed
The Basque Country is a benchmark for a unique business model: cooperativism. Cooperatives are currently spread throughout the territory, creating employment, innovation and social cohesion at local level.
Explore the interactive map, consult publications and learn more about how cooperativism is transforming the Basque Country from every corner.
A way of working where people matter
Cooperativism is far more than a business model: it is a way of understanding work, the economy and society. It is a business model that puts people at the centre. In the Basque Country, this model is reflected in thousands of collective projects, notably worker cooperatives with a strong industrial presence, as well as their role across all current and emerging economic sectors. Participation, equity and solidarity are fundamental pillars of this model. Discover how it works, what makes it unique, and why it remains a model for the future.
Publications
Academic research on the evolution and challenges of cooperativism in the Basque Country.
Contact us
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