The Hive: Co-op and social enterprise development hub launchesCo-operatives UK and the Co-operative Bank have launched The Hive co-op development hubThe Hive: Co-op and social enterprise development hub launches

In 2015, the Bank committed 1m towards co-operative development, in a deal that would see Co-operatives UK delivering a range of programmes.

The Hive, which launches today (29 February), is aimed at people wanting to set up co-operative or community enterprises, and will also support the development of the existing 7,000 independent UK co-op businesses. There are also tools, templates and checklists for organisations to work through, from Business Planning to Buyouts and Conversions, and a list of preferred providers who offer one-to-one and group advice for the Hive programme.

“This is just phase one of the programme, but alongside training and advice, it already offers what we think may be the most comprehensive online guide to starting and growing a co-operative out there,” said Ed Mayo, secretary general at Co-operatives UK.

An online co-operative community launching in April will further unite member-owned businesses across the country by creating networking and business development opportunities.

The launch of the Hive comes as research from Co-operatives UK highlights evidence of people’s discontentment with the amount of control they have over the economy, their workplaces and their local communities.