The project starts with:

• A compelling need
• A strong champion
• A clear vision
• A good business idea

The founding board has:

• Business acumen
• A diversity of skills
• Integrity
• Interested in the most viable business possible
• Commitment to the project
• The ability to govern the co-op

Project planning includes:

• Thorough market understanding
• Honest market research
• Effective business plan
• Due diligence
• Exit strategy
• A conscious transition from development to operation

Founding members are:

• Committed to the project
• Motivated by a common vision
• Flexible thinkers

From a financial perspective, the project has:

• Adequate capitalization
• Early member financial commitment
• Financial feasibility
• A commitment to use money wisely
• Adequate financial resources

The project has:

• Strong management
• Bylaws that spell it out
• Fortuitous timing
• Adequate human resources
• The ability to learn from failure
• A commitment to continuous communication with members, board, management and consultants
• A commitment to education and training
• Quick buy-in and the ability to build on success
• A skilled co-op development facilitator