| Resource Type | Primer |
| Author / Source | Co-op Innovation Network (CIN) |
| Publication Date | June 2026 |
| Location | United States |
| Initiative Type | Program, Policy |
| Project Complexity | Beginner |
| Recommended For | Board, Staff |
Estimated reading time: 15 minutes
Why This Matters for Rural Electric Co-ops
Member engagement is at the center of the cooperative model, yet many member-owners view themselves only as customers, not owners. This primer explains why participation is often low, why engaging members matters, and how boards and staff can address the gap.
Co-ops can use this document for new staff and board member orientation, or as a prompt to return to the basics of member engagement in order to build a strong and resilient cooperative.
Key Takeaways
| › | Members are owners, not just customers. Each holds one vote and a share of margins, which is the foundation engagement is built on. |
| › | Participation is often low because members do not know they are owners, board seats go uncontested, and information is hard to find. |
| › | An engaged membership lowers the cost to serve, holds leadership accountable, and increases overall satisfaction. |
| › | Co-ops can drive engagement by making participation easy, keeping information open, giving members a reason to show up, and offering year-round ways to engage. |
Estimated reading time: 15 minutes
Related to
Comments
0 comments
Please sign in to leave a comment.