Second global Summit for co-operators to take place in 2014

27 Feb 2013

Following the success of last year's International Summit of Cooperatives, the second meeting of co-operative and mutual business leaders is set to take place in 2014.

The Desjardins Group and International Co-operative Alliance will co-host next year's event in Quebec CIty, Canada, from 6-9 October.

Described by leaders of both organisations as the "Davos" for co-operative and mutual enterprises, the event provides a forum for businesses to discuss challenges facing the sector.

Dame Pauline Green, President of the ICA, said: “The first International Summit of Cooperatives made an important contribution to the Blueprint for a Co-operative Decade that was adopted at the close of the International Year of Co-operatives. We must build on the momentum, cohesion, confidence and enthusiasm generated by the Year. With the support of our partners, the second Summit will allow us to take stock of progress and drive the Blueprint agenda.”

Last year's Summit attracted 2,800 participants from 91 countries, which helped to facilitate networking and inter-co-operation. The event aspires to enable co-operative and mutual leaders to learn new ideas and techniques to improve the performance of their organisation; and organisers believe that the Summit will help to continue the momentum created by co-operators during the International Year of Co-operatives.

Monique F. Leroux, Chair of the Board, President and CEO of Desjardins Group added: “We must continue to build on the success of this first International Summit of Cooperatives. Our goal is to create a forum for decision-makers from the world's top co-operatives and mutuals to discuss complex issues. We want co-operative and mutual leaders to leave the Summit with a wealth of new ideas that will help boost the performance of their organizations.”

• To find out more about the Summit, visit: www.intlsummit.coop