Yhteisötosuuskunnat

Yhteisötosuuskunnat, sometimes translated as community cooperatives or member cooperatives, are a form of cooperative organization rooted in the Finnish cooperative tradition. These entities are established and owned by their members, who collectively participate in the decision-making and benefit from the cooperative's activities. The core principle is mutual benefit and shared ownership among the participating individuals or groups.

Unlike traditional cooperatives that might focus on a specific economic sector like agriculture or retail, yhteisötosuuskunnat often serve a broader range of community needs. These can include providing services, managing shared resources, or engaging in local economic development. Membership is typically open to individuals or organizations who subscribe to the cooperative's goals and values. Decisions are usually made democratically, with each member having an equal vote, reflecting the cooperative ideal of "one member, one vote."

The financial structure of a yhteisötosuuskunta involves members contributing capital, which can be through shares or other forms of investment. Profits generated by the cooperative are often distributed back to members in proportion to their usage of the cooperative's services or their participation, or reinvested to further the cooperative's objectives. This model emphasizes member involvement and aims to foster a sense of collective responsibility and empowerment within the community.