Useful links
Co-operatives
International Co-operative Alliance (ICA)
Independent, non-governmental association that unites, represents and serves co-operatives worldwide.
Co-operatives UK
The central membership organisation for co-operative enterprise throughout the UK.
Co-operation & Mutuality Scotland
The strategic voice for co-operation and mutuality in Scotland - owned and controlled by its co-operative and mutual members.
Scottish Agricultural Organisation Scotland (SAOS)
A membership organisation working to strengthen the profitability, competitiveness and sustainability of Scotland's farming, food and related rural industries and communities, through co-operation and joint activity.
Employee ownership
European Federation of Employee Shareownership (EFES)
The umbrella organisation for employee owners and companies, and any person or organisation looking to promote employee ownership and participation in Europe.
Employee Ownership Association
The voice of co-owned business in the UK. The business association for companies who are substantially or wholly owned by the people who work for them.
Business advice
Scottish Enterprise
The economic development agency covering 93% of the Scottish population. It helps ambitious businesses to grow, with a focus on key industry sectors.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise
The economic and community development agency for a diverse region which covers more than half of Scotland. It aims to build sustainable economic growth in all parts of the Highlands and Islands.
Business Gateway
Practical help, advice and support for new and growing businesses in Scotland
Sources of finance
Baxi Partnership
Helping employees buy the companies in which they work.
Co-operative and Community Finance
Lending for social purpose and collective benefit.
The Co-operative Bank
Owned and controlled by its members and ethically guided.
Triodos Bank
Putting money to work for positive social, environmental and cultural change.
Social Investment Scotland
Stimulating enterprise and wealth creation in under-invested communities.
National Lottery
Fully recognises the eligibility of co-operatives and mutual societies. They can apply for grant support to help deliver their objectives.
Other organisations
Association of British Credit Unions (ABCUL)
The main trade association for credit unions.
Supporters Direct
Support, advice and information for groups of football supporters who want a responsible role in the life of the football club they support.
Scottish Social Enterprise Coalition
The national collective lobbying and campaigns voice for social enterprise in Scotland.
Tourism Intelligence Scotland library(TIS)
Offers tourism businesses the opportunity to keep up to date with the latest market intelligence and trends to get ahead and stay competitive. Getting involved in TIS is easy – simply register on the website for access to the full range of resources.