Capital investment from the Members reduces the Cooperative’s overall cost of capital, which we believe benefits all owners in the long run. These ownership investments also demonstrate to current and potential lending institutions that the Cooperative enjoys a solid commitment from our current Members. Such an investment also supports the local economy by keeping capital investments local.

Co-ops, because of their unique legal structure, have the ability to raise capital from owners through loans, preferred share sales, and donations. Capital raised from owners is cheaper than bank financing, more flexible, and allows owners the opportunity to exercise the cooperative principle of Economic Participation.  Oshkosh Food Co-op member-owners have the opportunity to purchase preferred shares or make a donation.

Your Ownership is the terrific first step that gives you the right to vote for Board members and to run for the Board, giving you input into how the store is governed. And now, as a member-owner, you have another exclusive opportunity: to invest further in your store, in your community, and in your values, with the potential to earn a fair rate of return. Preferred Shares is a long-standing mechanism used by grocery co-ops across the country to raise the money needed to open a store. Preferred Shares demonstrate a loyal customer base and reduce debt service, making the co-op stronger. Donations to the co-op further strengthen our financial position because they do not require interest or dividend payments.

The goal of our recapitalization campaign is to raise $150,000 by August 31, 2025.

Investments in preferred shares along with donations will strengthen the co-op's financial position, allowing for reinvestment in general capital, which will enable us to enhance our store and expand our community impact. This includes supporting our dedicated staff and maintaining essential equipment, as well as growing our innovative programs, community-based events, and initiatives aimed at eliminating the food desert in our community.

Co-op member-owners with existing loans may choose the following options:

• Maintain your original loan terms as outlined during the first campaign.
• Forgive your loan, turning your investment into a gift that strengthens our future.
• Extend your loan by an additional five years, continuing your support of our work.
• Convert your loan into Preferred Shares, deepening your investment in the co-op’s long-term success.

A purchase of preferred shares is the best way to help the co-op. If you currently hold a loan, the best way to help the co-op is to, in the following order:

1. Forgive your loan, turning your investment into a gift that strengthens our future.
2. Convert your loan into Preferred Shares, deepening your investment in the co-op’s long-term success.
3. Extend your loan by an additional five years, continuing your support of our work.
4. Maintain your original loan terms as outlined during the first campaign.

As with any investment in a business, there are risks to your investment and you are required to read our investment documents prior to investing. Please email us at [email protected] to request a copy.

Once you receive and review the investment documents, please complete a pledge form. Email us at [email protected] if you have any questions.

Preferred Shares are non-voting stock that could yield annual dividends. Any Owner who lives in Wisconsin may participate and buy Preferred Shares at $500 per share. Outside of donations, Preferred Shares are the most co-op friendly way to invest, because they show up as equity (not debt) on the co-op’s financial statement. They should be considered a long-term investment. They can yield annual dividends but like most stock investments, there is risk and no guarantees. More details may be found here.

Donations are gratefully welcomed! You may make a donation in any amount here or by check mailed to the Oshkosh Food Co-op, P.O. Box 722, Oshkosh  WI   54903