Building Better Communities through Cooperative Solutions

Cooperative ownership models are transforming local communities across Western Montana. You're invited to join Front Step Community Land Trust and Mission West Community Development Partners in conversation on:

• Community Land Trusts and Cooperative Housing: Learn about community land trusts and cooperative housing models, success stories emerging from right here in Missoula, and Front Step's approach to assisting local residents with converting properties to collective ownership.

• Community-Owned Real Estate Cooperatives: Discover ways that everyday people can pool their assets and resources to take ownership of commercial real estate, featuring proven strategies from Mission West’s work helping communities sustain thriving local businesses and neighborhoods.

• Cooperative Business Succession: Explore how converting a business to cooperative ownership can promote economic democracy and learn from Mission West’s experience guiding transitions to keep essential infrastructure in the hands of the people who know it best.

We’re hosting this event to celebrate National Co-op Month and the International Year of Cooperatives. Anyone interested in community development, sustainable business, affordable housing, or economic democracy is welcome to attend. In addition to presenting first-hand perspectives from experts in the field, we’ll facilitate small-group breakout discussions to explore new opportunities to work together. And since we’re celebrating, we’ll serve appetizers from Market on Front and offer award-winning beer for purchase from Ronan Co-op Brewery, Montana's first and only community-owned craft brewery.

Info: Doors open at 5:30! Meet your hosts, chat with others, and enjoy appetizers from Market on Front and award-winning beer for purchase from Ronan Co-op Brewery, Montana's first and only community-owned craft brewery.

Info: Staff from Front Step CLT and Mission West CDP and invited partners with first-hand knowledge will introduce emerging cooperative solutions in our region that are transforming local communities and inspiring collective ownership.

Info: Join presenters and fellow guests in focused dialogue on ways these cooperative models may be adapted to your own communities and discover opportunities for continuing the conversation with Front Step and Mission West teams.