Creating a co-operative - An information guide
Co-operatives Secretariat, Government of Canada, 2006. Provides links to a variety of documents related to co-operative development, including definitions and principles of a co-operative, frequently asked questions, and steps to forming a co-operative. Includes information on legislation and development supports available in each province and territory.

Advising People on Cooperatives
USDA, Agricultural Cooperative Service, Report 29, 59 pp., Revised 1991. Resource guide for consultants advising groups on the co-operative model, including types of agricultural co-operatives and steps to organizing one.

Agricultural Co-operatives: A Start-Up Guide
Canada/BC Farm Business Management Program, 39 pp. Comparison of business models; steps to forming a co-operative; board, management, and member responsibilities;guidelines for success; registration and legal issues; funding; and information sources for BC.

A Guide to Value-Added Co-operative Development
AgDecision Maker, Iowa State University, 2002

Forming a New Generation Cooperative in Manitoba
Manitoba Rural Adaptation Council Inc. and the University of Manitoba, 56 pp. Comparison of different business forms; distinguishing features of an NGC; success factors for co-operatives;leadership and membership issues; feasibility study; business plan; equity drive; and legislation pertaining to co-operatives in Manitoba.

Cooperative Feasibility Study Guide
USDA, Rural Business-Cooperative Service, Report 58, 24 pp., 2000. Provides information to assist groups in determining whether to conduct a feasibility study, how to conduct the study and evaluate the results, and how to use the information collected. Includes sample feasibility study.

Developing and Supporting Saskatchewan Co-operatives: A Director's Handbook
Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, 16 pp., 2007. Information related to establishing a co-operative in Saskatchewan.

Understanding Cooperatives: How to Start a Cooperative
USDA, Rural Business and Cooperative Development Service, Report 45, 4 pp., 1995. Steps to organizing a co-operative, including establishing a steering committee, conducing a member survey and market analysis, preparing a business plan, and drafting legal papers.

Articles and Bylaws Regarding Cooperatives
Government of Canada, 2004. Explains how to develop and amend the articles, memorandum or letters of incorporation, and bylaws to tailor them to the unique needs of an individual co-operative and to meet legal requirements. Intended for use by members, directors, and managers of co-operatives.

Interactive Business Planner
Government of Canada, 2006. Internet based interactive tool that can be used to assist in developing a business plan.

Cooperatives Info-Guide
Government of Canada, 2005. Information on what a co-operative is, the advantages and disadvantages of the co-operative business structure, steps to forming a co-operative, contents of a business plan, requirements and costs of federal incorporation, and links to helpful resources and sites supporting co-op development.

Business Plan Workbook
Nova Scotia Co-operative Council, 41 pp., revised 2006. Detailed description of how to develop a business plan for a co-operative, including sample financial forms and a business development guide checklist.