What if building a business or a not-for-profit didn’t mean burnout?

Co-operatives are quietly reshaping the world of work, housing and community. From small local collectives to billion-dollar enterprises, they offer a proven model that grows impact, ownership and sustainability by returning benefits to members, not arms-length shareholders. At a time of global uncertainty and stress, people around the world are turning local and choosing co-operative ownership to build simple solutions to the overwhelming global challenges we face.

Join us for an engaging, practical introduction to co-ops and how they actually work.

We’ll start with a short, energising “Co-ops 101” and share inspiring examples from Australia and around the world. Then we’ll move into small breakout groups where you can hear directly from local Tassie co-ops across different industries and life stages.

You’ll meet people building:
• worker-owned businesses
• affordable housing models
• circular economy enterprises
• community-focused collectives, all structured as co-ops!

After the breakouts, we’ll come back together for a relaxed Q&A where you can ask anything, from “how do I start?” to “could this work for my idea?”

You’ll leave with:
• a clear understanding of what co-ops are and how they work as a legal structure
• real-world examples across different sectors
• connections with local co-op founders and members
• next steps if you’re curious about starting or joining one

Whether you’re startup-curious, values-driven, or just looking for a more sustainable way to build something meaningful with a group that has better buy-in and bigger benefits, this event is for you!

Bar with alc and non-alc options available by donation
Snacks available
Registrations $10 General Admission $5 Concession

This event is a joint initiative sponsored by the generous donation of Resource Work Co-operative (The South Hobart Tip Shop) and co-designed with The Co-op Federation (a peak body for co-operatives).

This evening event will be held at the Long Gallery, Salamanca Arts Centre, during the Tip Shop's amazing annual event Art From Trash. Check out the exhibition while you're there!

Contact the host of Build It Together

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