Worker Cooperatives businesses much like any other small business under capitalism will experience moments of crisis.
And then there are times where there isn’t a moment of crisis but rather a time sensitive opportunity for the coop or a worker owner. This opportunity could be a training, a license, interpretation/ translation, or even vending at a convention. Opportunities like these are often associated with costs that may not be affordable for worker cooperatives or worker-owners.
We understand that for many BIPOC and immigrant-led worker cooperatives these economic hardships are much worse and can entirely stifle one’s ability to fully take advantage of certain opportunities.
For these reasons, NYC NOWC has decided to create the Cooperative Emergency Fund. This will be a year long fund that will cater to time sensitive/ emergency based requests. Worker Cooperatives will be able to access a maximum of $500 a year as long as it coincides with the cost of what is being funded.
Requirements
- Must be a worker cooperative business (startup or an operating worker-owned business)
- The business must be based out of NYC
Application
If your worker cooperative business is interested in the Cooperative Emergency Fund apply here.
Please email or call NYC NOWC Director of Membership Emmanuel Pardilla to confirm receipt of application at emmanuel@nycworker.coop or 917-349-6457.
FAQ
- I have only spent an amount below $500. Can I still access the remaining funds up to $500 within the year?
No. There is not a set amount that is awarded to worker coops. Rather, the CEF will cover the cost of what is being proposed for funding by the awardee.
- How long should I wait to apply again for the CEF?
Worker Cooperatives will have to wait until the end of the fiscal year (end of June) to reapply.
- I am interested in receiving more than $500. What should I do?
NYC NOWC will review your application to create options for the applicant. But we may turn the applicant down and recommend applying for the Cooperative Sustainability Fund (CSF) instead.
- Can a worker owner apply without the permission of the worker cooperative?
No. CEF is a NYC NOWC member benefit and our members are worker cooperatives and organizations. We urge worker-owners to apply, already having consent from their worker cooperative business.