Membership
Co-operatives – Why it Pays to Be a Member
What is a Co-operative?
Under the co-operative business model, members own the organization and vote on how services will be offered. All directors are elected by the membership; ensuring member needs are prominent in the delivery of our mission and vision.
Securing the services of a co-operative does not give you any liability. We are a normal business entity held responsible to the Co-op Act, standard business practices, and FISRA scrutiny.
Do I Have to Be a Member to Use Your Services?
No, our services are available to non-members. Members are able to vote at our AGM and benefit from dividends and patronage.
I’m Not a Member, Why Would I Benefit from Working With a Co-operative?
Co-operatives can offer more stability than some traditional business structures (like sole proprietorship) which are more likely to sell their business or fail. AEC has remained a skilled energy marketer since its founding in 1988, much longer than most energy companies in Ontario. As a part of our bylaws, we regularly conduct external finance and risk audits that go above and beyond industry expectations for a company of our size.
Features of Co-operatives
Eligible Agri-Food & Agri-Tech Industries for Membership
Ecological Systems: Water, Soil, Carbon
Academics, Scientists, Researchers
Entrepreneurship, Financial Services
Health & Environment
Government
Transportation & Ports
Packaging, Equipment, Info Technology
Input Suppliers
Producers
Processors
Distributors
Wholesalers
Retailers (Grocery)
Restaurants: Food Services
By-Products; Bio-Applications
Don’t See Your Industry Above? Contact us to see if you are eligible for membership.
Frequently Asked Questions