Interest in worker cooperatives and cooperative development is growing. At the same time, many groups interested in the cooperative model have little familiarity with actual cooperative practices. There is a great need for experienced voices to help guide the plans and projects of those exploring worker cooperatives, to help them set up effective systems, structures and processes. This is where DAWN comes in.

Worker cooperatives have always relied on each other informally for technical assistance, models, advice and small loans. We have created a variety of places to exchange information and build skills: local federations; local, regional and national conferences; phone calls and in-person visits; and active financial and technical support for startup projects from established workplaces. The creation of the US Federation of Worker Cooperatives was in part motivated by a desire to formalize and grow this already existing network of support. Building on existing relationships and projects, we are now poised to create and coordinate a national network of homegrown experts.

And these homegrown experts exist! After years of growth in worker cooperatives, there is a new generation of experienced worker-cooperators who are dynamic, motivated and interested in sharing their expertise and providing peer technical assistance to worker-owned businesses and startups. DAWN coordinates this pool of energetic and talented worker cooperators, trains and prepares them to provide effective assistance, and helps build a national support system that enables them to work together for maximum effect.