Missouri Institute of Cooperatives

The Missouri Institute of Cooperatives (MIC) is a non-profit 501(c) 6 membership organization dedicated to the development of education programs that provide a better understanding of the cooperative form of enterprise. Director development programs are designed to foster the special set of skills required for effective board governance. The program explores effective practices, polices and the role of cooperative directors. The purpose is to give local cooperative leaders insight regarding the strategic decisions that influence the future success of their cooperatives and enable the cooperative to better serve their members. A special emphasis is also placed on youth education to promote a broader understanding of cooperatives. MIC, with close collaboration from the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, sponsors annual public speaking and organize a cooperative contests. Voluntary contributions from member cooperatives support MIC’s activities. A board of directors governs the Institute. Each regional cooperative appoints one or two board members and the local cooperatives elect six district members. MIC has a close working relationship with the University of Missouri and contracts with the University’s Division of Applied Social Sciences for program management.