From 2025 to 2026: Momentum for Co-ops Everywhere
The co‑operative movement is buzzing with energy and ambition after the 2025 International Year of Co-operatives. Globally, the International Co‑operative Alliance (ICA) has set out its bold 2026–2030 Global Strategy, charting how co‑ops will lead on sustainability, democracy, and social justice. The full report here.
Closer to home, Co‑operatives UK is urging us to act. They are coordinating a sector‑wide response to the UK Government’s Call for Evidence on Business Support for Co‑operatives. This is a once‑in‑a‑generation chance to influence national policy on how co‑ops start, grow, and access finance. Members are invited to share experiences, data, and ideas to strengthen the case for doubling the size of the UK co‑operative sector. You can read more and get involved here.
Adding weight to this momentum, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) published its Mutuals Report in December 2025, highlighting the strength of the sector: over 8,400 co‑operative and community benefit societies, holding £223 billion in assets and representing more than 12 million memberships. The report sets out practical steps to make it easier to start and grow societies, reduce costs, and strengthen support. Read the report here.
In the Republic of Ireland, the government has committed to finalise the Co‑operative Societies Bill, the most significant reform of co‑op law in the State’s history. It lowers barriers to entry, strengthens governance, and modernises the framework for co‑ops to thrive. This is a clear signal of policy momentum just across the border. Read what the Minister of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment said here .
As we step into 2026, we carry forward the energy of the International Year of Co‑operatives 2025. We want to extend our warmest thanks to all local co‑operators, co‑operatives, funders, and supporters who made the year so memorable and constructive. Your commitment has strengthened our work at Co‑operative Alternatives, built new connections, and shown the true power of collaboration. To remind us what we have done together visit this dedicated page to IYC 2025.
Together, we are part of a bigger wave of change. From Belfast to Dublin, London to Brussel, co‑ops are stepping up, shaping fairer economies, and proving that community power is the future.
THANK YOU!
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Quick links
2026–2030 Strategy: Practice, Promote and Protect | ICA
Call for evidence on business support for co-operatives | Co-operatives UK
Workshops and Webinars on Co-ops - 2026