Why Membership Matters

Everyone benefits from being connected to a broader cooperative movement. At Cooperative Housing International (CHI), we uphold the fifth cooperative principle: education, training, and information. We are committed to helping our members learn from best practices and take inspiration from innovations in cooperative housing across the globe.

The Value of Being Part of the International Movement

Being part of this international network opens the door to valuable business relationships, partnerships, and knowledge exchange. It also creates a platform to discuss shared challenges and solutions.

Moreover, CHI members help shape the organization. They elect—and are eligible to serve as—board or committee members, contributing to CHI’s strategic priorities. This leadership helps develop frameworks that support the growth of cooperative and mutual housing around the world.

Participate, Influence, and Grow

CHI members also engage in the broader cooperative movement by attending International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) meetings, including sectoral, regional, and general assemblies. Members gain access to the ICA’s vast repository of cooperative statistics, intelligence, and resources.

By leveraging the reach and expertise of the ICA, we can collectively amplify the voice and influence of housing cooperatives on global, regional, and sectoral levels. Now more than ever, cooperative housing is vital—and by working together, we demonstrate the strength of cooperative action.

Becoming a Member of CHI

Membership in CHI is available through membership in the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA). There are two categories:

• Member

• Associate Member

All organisations participating in ICA—whether globally, regionally, or sectorally—must join as either a Member or Associate Member. One membership subscription covers participation across all ICA structures.

Already Affiliated?

If your organisation is already affiliated with an ICA member in your country, you can easily join CHI. This is possible through a letter of confirmation from your ICA-affiliated organisation, verifying your membership and approving your participation in CHI. Contact us at info@chi.coop for more details.

Who Can Join?

Full membership is open to a range of organisations, including:

• National unions or federations of cooperative organisations

• Apex organisations (national cooperative confederations)

• National cooperative businesses with mixed ownership (individuals and enterprises)

• Primary or grassroots cooperatives

• International or regional federations of cooperative organisations

• Mutual organisations that align with the ICA Statement on Cooperative Identity

Associate membership is available to organisations that support the cooperative movement but do not qualify as full members. This includes:

• Supportive organisations and government agencies

• Entities owned and controlled by cooperatives

• Educational or research institutions that promote cooperatives

How to Apply to ICA?

To apply, candidates must complete the Membership Application Form and submit the following:

• Rules or constitution of the organisation

• Most recent annual report

• List of member societies or affiliates

• Organisational affiliations

Submit your application and supporting documents to:
Gretchen Hacquard – Director of Membership
Email: hacquard@ica.coop

For more information, visit the ICA membership page. If you have questions about joining CHI, please contact us at info@chi.coop