Business And Employment Co-operatives (BECs)

A co-operative is a legal business entity owned and democratically controlled by its members for their benefit. In a co-operative some members have more shares than others enabling them exert greater influence on decisions being made.

This old, but new way of job creation is a new angle for business and employment. This mindset was created in France in the mid 90's and what started with a new idea is now upwards of fifty five business and employment cooperatives or BEC's and has spread throughout the different regions of the country. The BEC's are also very entrepreneur friendly allowing them more flexibility will immediate benefits from any of their ideas. The BEC's also encourage the entrepreneur to join forces with the cooperative, which will net bigger and faster results than trying to remain independent, as well as providing a environment where support is encouraged and mutually supported.

Phase one of the three phases of the business and employment cooperatives, pertains to the salaried entrepreneur. The candidate explores every possibility for the business idea. The candidate is also unemployed and must be totally dependent on the cooperative. The BEC will constantly monitor the progression of the business plan or idea to make sure it is feasible while taking care of the business administration and accounting duties.

Phase two is also a salaried entrepreneur. This is a step up and is a good indication that the ideas are good enough to warrant a part time contract and also must pay 10% + profit from sales. The business will gradually begin to grow as the candidate receives additional training and support. The income of the entrepreneur is dependent on the success of the business.

The Third Phase is the member entrepreneur. In this phase the entrepreneur can choose to actively participate in the BEC as a member with voting privileges and also makes contributions towards the management of the cooperative.

BEC's or the business and employment cooperatives are being instrumental in how many new policies are being made. Rural urban migration is seeing a slow down because the emphasis in on encouraging and supporting professionals who re establish their business in the rural areas. These professionals bring back valuable skills, professional know-how, economic activity and social life to depopulated areas. This BEC plan brings stability to the work force, including dormant workers, those being senior citizens and inmates a new beginning with part time employment. This working together and supporting each other through employment opportunities as well and business opportunities for entrepreneurs has made the situation a win win for everyone. Entrepreneurs can control their ideas, and utilize the monitoring and administrative help and support of the BEC and gives them the confidence to take their business to the next successful level.