Feasibility Studies for New Cooperative Ventures Training Course

Feasibility Studies for New Cooperative Ventures Training Course

Introduction

Embarking on a new cooperative venture requires meticulous planning and a deep understanding of market dynamics, operational viability, and financial sustainability. Feasibility Studies for New Cooperative Ventures Training Course is designed to equip aspiring cooperative founders, existing leaders, and support organizations with the essential analytical tools, methodologies, and strategic insights to rigorously evaluate the potential success of their proposed initiatives. Participants will learn how to conduct thorough market research, assess technical feasibility, analyze financial projections, and identify potential risks and opportunities, ensuring a solid foundation for sustainable growth and member benefit.

This intensive program will guide participants through the entire process of developing a robust feasibility report, from initial concept validation to detailed financial modeling and risk mitigation strategies. We will explore various cooperative models and their specific considerations, emphasizing the unique aspects of member-centric governance and shared value creation. By mastering the art of data-driven decision-making and comprehensive due diligence, participants will be empowered to confidently launch ventures that truly serve their communities, contribute to economic development, and foster long-term resilience within the cooperative sector.

Course duration       

5 Days

Course Objectives

1. Articulate the critical role of a feasibility study in new cooperative venture development.
2. Conduct comprehensive market research to identify target markets and competitive landscapes.
3. Evaluate the technical viability and operational requirements of a proposed cooperative venture.
4. Develop realistic financial projections and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs).
5. Assess potential risks and challenges and formulate effective mitigation strategies.
6. Understand the legal and regulatory frameworks governing cooperative formation.
7. Identify and engage key stakeholders in the feasibility study process.
8. Prepare a compelling and well-structured feasibility report.
9. Apply data analytics techniques to inform feasibility assessments.
10. Explore innovative business models for cooperative ventures.
11. Develop strategies for securing funding and investment for new cooperatives.
12. Integrate sustainability principles into cooperative venture planning.
13. Leverage digital tools for efficient feasibility study execution.

Organizational Benefits

1. Reduced risk of failure for new cooperative ventures.
2. Improved allocation of resources and capital.
3. Enhanced ability to attract funding and investment.
4. Stronger strategic planning and decision-making.
5. Clearer understanding of market opportunities and challenges.
6. Increased confidence in launching successful initiatives.
7. Better compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
8. Strengthened internal capacity for project evaluation.
9. Improved stakeholder engagement and buy-in.
10. Greater potential for long-term cooperative sustainability and impact.

 

Target Participants

• Aspiring Cooperative Founders and Entrepreneurs
• Existing Cooperative Leaders and Managers
• Community Development Workers
• Government Agencies Supporting Cooperatives
• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
• Financial Institutions and Investors
• Academics and Researchers in Cooperative Development

 

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Feasibility Studies for Cooperatives

• Defining a Feasibility Study: Purpose and Scope
• Why Feasibility Studies are Crucial for Cooperatives
• Key Components of a Comprehensive Feasibility Study
• Understanding the Cooperative Advantage in New Ventures
• Case Study: Analyzing a successful cooperative's journey from idea to market based on initial feasibility.

Module 2: Market Analysis and Demand Assessment

• Identifying Target Markets and Member Needs
• Analyzing Market Size, Growth, and Trends
• Conducting Competitive Analysis in the Cooperative Sector
• Understanding Consumer Behavior and Preferences
• Case Study: A agricultural cooperative conducting market research for a new produce processing venture.

Module 3: Technical and Operational Feasibility

• Assessing Resource Requirements (Human, Financial, Physical)
• Evaluating Production Processes and Technology Needs
• Supply Chain Analysis and Logistics Considerations
• Site Selection and Infrastructure Requirements
• Case Study: Determining the technical feasibility of a community-owned renewable energy cooperative.

Module 4: Financial Feasibility and Projections

• Developing Startup Cost Estimates and Capital Requirements
• Forecasting Revenue Streams and Operating Expenses
• Constructing Pro Forma Financial Statements (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow)
• Key Financial Ratios and Break-Even Analysis
• Case Study: Creating financial projections for a new consumer cooperative grocery store.

Module 5: Organizational and Management Feasibility

• Defining the Cooperative's Legal Structure and Governance Model
• Roles, Responsibilities, and Organizational Chart
• Management Team Assessment and Skill Gaps
• Member Engagement and Participation Strategies
• Case Study: Structuring the governance model for a new housing cooperative.

Module 6: Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies

• Identifying Potential Business, Market, and Operational Risks
• Developing Risk Mitigation Plans and Contingency Measures
• Legal, Regulatory, and Environmental Compliance Considerations
• Ethical Implications and Social Impact Assessment
• Case Study: Addressing potential risks in a new cooperative venturing into digital services.

Module 7: Developing the Feasibility Report and Presentation

• Structuring and Writing a Comprehensive Feasibility Report
• Crafting a Compelling Executive Summary
• Data Visualization and Presentation Techniques
• Communicating Findings to Stakeholders and Investors
• Case Study: Reviewing and critiquing a sample feasibility report for a proposed worker cooperative.

Module 8: Decision-Making and Next Steps for Cooperative Ventures

• Interpreting Feasibility Study Results
• Making Informed Go/No-Go Decisions
• Developing an Implementation Plan for a New Venture
• Accessing Funding and Support for Cooperative Startups
• Case Study: A community group using a feasibility study to secure grants for a new social enterprise cooperative.

Training Methodology

This course employs a participatory and hands-on approach to ensure practical learning, including:

• Interactive lectures and presentations.
• Group discussions and brainstorming sessions.
• Hands-on exercises using real-world datasets.
• Role-playing and scenario-based simulations.
• Analysis of case studies to bridge theory and practice.
• Peer-to-peer learning and networking.
• Expert-led Q&A sessions.
• Continuous feedback and personalized guidance.

Register as a group from 3 participants for a Discount

Send us an email: info@datastatresearch.org or call +254724527104 

Certification

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a globally- recognized certificate.

Tailor-Made Course

 We also offer tailor-made courses based on your needs.

Key Notes

a. The participant must be conversant with English.

b. Upon completion of training the participant will be issued with an Authorized Training Certificate

c. Course duration is flexible and the contents can be modified to fit any number of days.

d. The course fee includes facilitation training materials, 2 coffee breaks, buffet lunch and A Certificate upon successful completion of Training.

e. One-year post-training support Consultation and Coaching provided after the course.

f. Payment should be done at least a week before commence of the training, to DATASTAT CONSULTANCY LTD account, as indicated in the invoice so as to enable us prepare better for you.