College Conference on Cooperatives
Each February, Farmers Union hosts the College Conference on Cooperatives to educate, motivate, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Over the course of this three-day conference, participants will hear from experts in the field, participate in interactive learning activities and workshops, and tour co-ops right here in the Twin Cities. The event attracts students from across the country and is beneficial to those new to co-ops as well as those with some previous co-op education.
Registration is now open for a limited number of in-person attendees! If you can't make it to the Twin Cities, register to view the February 17 programming virtually via Zoom free of charge.
Attend In-Person Attend Virtually
Featured Video: Inside the Twin Cities Co-ops
During NFU's 2021 virtual College Conference on Cooperatives, participants got a behind-the-scenes look at Fair State Brewing Cooperative, a 1,500-member craft beer co-op, and Seward Community Co-op, a beloved local institution which celebrates its 50-year anniversary next year.
Takeaways from Past Participants
“I learned a lot from this program. As someone who has not had much exposure to the world of co-ops and agricultural business, it was extremely interesting to learn more about these topics. These are lessons that I will take with me going forward in my academic and professional life.”
“The chance to get to talk one-on-one with professionals in the cooperative space was really valuable for me. I was able to discuss my particular skills and experience in working with co-ops and it has definitely made it seem like a promising career option.”
“College students need to take ownership of their communities because they won't prosper unless we make them prosper. In so many small towns, the youth either don't get involved or move away. I think it is so important that we all come together to try and meet the needs where we are if possible – co-ops are a good way to accomplish that in many situations.”
FAQs
Registration
Registration costs $85. Space is limited and may sell out. Registration will open on December 1st.
Scholarships
Many state Farmers Unions provide scholarships to young people attending the conference. Learn more about your local Farmers Union here: https://nfu.org/join/. If your state does not have a State President, please contact [email protected].
Hotel and Travel
The conference will be held at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Bloomington/Minneapolis. Double occupancy hotel rooms are included in registration. You can book a private room through registration for an additional fee.
National Farmers Union does not coordinate or reimburse travel for attendees. Please see the scholarships section to learn about other opportunities.
Parking
Hotel self-parking is available for $6.00 + tax per day per vehicle. National Farmers Union does not validate or reimburse for parking costs.
Meals
Most meals are included as part of the conference. The meals will be listed on the agenda as “provided” or “on own.”
National Farmers Union can accommodate any dietary requests made during registration before February 1. If you register after this date or on-site, your requests will be given to the caterers but may not be met immediately due to limited resources.
Sponsors
