An Examination of Characteristics and Determinants of Success of Cooperatives in the Non-Agricultural Sectors

Cooperative, a term commonly associated with farmers and the agricultural sector, is also prevalent in a variety of private, non-agricultural sectors. Cooperation among private businesses or public entities has led to cost sharing and more efficiency. However, not all cooperative ventures have been successful. Knowing and understanding what economic, organizational, financial, and operational factors help some cooperatives to succeed could enhance the ability of community leaders and businesses to use the cooperative model to their advantage. With such a goal in mind, this study examines the characteristics of a nationwide sample of cooperative businesses in a variety of non-agricultural sectors and develops a “probability of success” model