Growing the co-operative economy in Preston

As the programme Advancing a Shared Economy in Preston (ASEP) extends into its second year, a culture of collaboration between anchor institutions and community and co- operative initiatives is emerging in Preston. The ASEP programme is jointly funded by Preston City Council and Power to Change and its overarching aim is to strengthen institutional capacity to underpin a more democratic and collaborative economy. The programme has three objectives focussed on decarbonisation, community development and raising awareness of the cooperative model. It fosters closer working, the sharing of insights and learning and the creation of shared resources.

Two projects are focused on raising awareness and developing the infrastructure to support co-operative development over the long term. The Preston Co-operative Education Centre is reaching out to trade unions to raise awareness and explore opportunities for union-backed worker co-ops in the city.