Members contribute equitably to the capital of their cooperative. As a result, investments in the cooperative pay limited interest to insulate the membership from those who would invest purely for speculative return. Autonomy and independence. Cooperatives are self-help organizations controlled by their members. If they enter agreements with the government, or other organizations, they do so only in a way that ensures democratic control by their members.
Cooperatives provide education in the principles and practices of cooperative business.
Cooperation among cooperatives. Cooperatives work together at the local, regional, national and international levels to further economic democracy. Concern for community. While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of their communities.