Faculty Publications

Creating Rural Worker Cooperatives in Iowa

Document Type

Book Chapter

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Retaining and Transitioning Businesses in Communities: Strategies in A New Era

First Page

180

Last Page

201

Abstract

This chapter discusses the challenges rural regions face when business owners are unable to sell their business and shut down operations, which ultimately leaves a void in the community. One viable solution to this mounting issue is businesses transiting to worker cooperatives. Although the model is newer in the United States, it is well established in other countries, being proven by the test of time. A general overview of the structure will be reviewed along with the benefits provided to all stakeholders, conceptual myths, implementation difficulties, and other potential opportunities. Then a case study is presented to discuss the real-world trials and successes of an Iowa worker cooperative conversion.

Department

John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center

Original Publication Date

6-26-2025

DOI of published version

10.4324/9781003497462-9

Link to Full Text

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