This free three-part webinar series series is designed for co-op leaders, housing advocates, policymakers, community members, and anyone interested in cooperative housing models and their impact. Although the content is Maine-focused, anyone is welcome to attend.

The series is hosted by the Cooperative Maine Business Alliance in partnership with Maine Cooperative Development Partners, Raise-Op Housing Co-op, Cooperative Development Institute, Collaborative Living, Mountainside Community Cooperative, CEDAC Boston, Land in Common, and more.

(Note separate registration for each workshop, with description.)

Session 1: Housing Co-op Startups: From idea to reality – Wed., October 8, 11 am (Register here.)

A practical walk-through of the co-op journey, from organizing to incorporation to move-in day. Hear directly from experienced co-op housing developers and members about common challenges and proven strategies. This session will give you the tools and inspiration to take the next step.

Moderator: Shannon Fuller (Raise-Op Housing Co-op – Lewiston, ME)
Panelists: Liz Trice (Maine Cooperative Development Partners and Backyard ADUs – Portland, ME), Margaret Jones (Mountainside Community Cooperative and ROC Association New England – Camden, ME), Thumbs (Collaborative Living Maine – Belfast, ME)

Session 2: Maintaining & Growing Existing Housing Co-ops – Wed., October 22, 11 am (Register here.)

This session dives into strategies for keeping co-ops strong and sustainable: decision-making, financial management, upkeep, growth strategies, and member engagement. Learn about what works, what to avoid, and how to position your co-op for long-term success.

Moderator: Chris Linder (Cooperative Fund of the Northeast – Bangor)
Panelists: Craig Saddlemire (Raise-Op Housing Cooperative – Lewiston, ME), Pat Schwebler (Cooperative Development Institute – Portland, ME), Julian Rowand (Maine Initiatives – Portland, ME)

Session 3: Inspiring Stories And Impact: Housing Co-Ops And Beyond – Wed., October 29, 11 am (Register here.)

Join this session to discover inspiring stories of housing co-ops overcoming challenges, building resilient communities, and shaping local economies. This session zooms out to explore how co-ops fit into the broader landscape of affordable housing and solidarity economy movements.

Moderator: Ann Gass (Maine Shared Equity Housing Network – Portland)
Panelists: Nora Gosselin (Cooperative Development Institute – Rhode Island), Ethan Miller (Land in Common, Greene, ME), Mathew Thall (Massachusetts Association of Housing Cooperatives – Boston, MA)