In order to build communities that are democratic, just and sustainable, we need businesses that are rooted in their place and responsive to the communities they serve. We are working with people across the Southeast growing new economies based on these principles through the development of cooperative structures.

We believe in authentic democracy where everyday people join one another on the basis of equality and concern for the common good to make collective decisions and take positive action. Participatory democracy encompasses emergent methods for engaging broader groups of people in the vital work of self-governance.

Nonprofits and community groups will continue to face shrinking funding streams from large donors and grant sources. Our matching grants program helps these groups develop constituent bases capable of providing long-term sustainable financial support.