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An annual general meeting (AGM) allows a co-operative’s members to come together, discuss their co-op, make decisions, and help shape its future. For many co-ops, an AGM might be only time some members engage in the co-op’s governance. For others (especially co-ops that are smaller) the AGM may just be a formal requirement that is over quickly. A co-operative is legally required to hold an AGM of its members to present them with information and approve important decisions. This page provides an overview of the major parts of an Co-operative AGM (including a handy sample agenda).
Before the meeting
A co-op’s bylaws should state the amount of notice it has to give members of the date of an AGM. This notice can be done in several ways, depending on the size and type of the co-operative. For smaller co-ops, personally contacting each member could be appropriate. For larger co-ops, advertising notice of the meeting on social media, in newspapers, or in a mail-out or email may be necessary. The board and staff should prepare for the AGM by creating and following an organizing plan. The tasks outlined in this plan should include:
Reporting requirements
Co-operatives have to report important information to their members and the government. These reports should fulfill legal requirements, but also update members on the health, progress, and direction of the co-operative. The type of reports presented will depend on the size and type of work the co-operative does. Larger complex organizations may report on various branches of the business, while smaller co-ops might not have a lot of new information to share. A co-operative that is active in marketing, fundraising, maintenance, or training may offer specific reports with updates or recommendations on these topics.
The most important report that needs to be presented at the AGM is the one produced by the co-op’s auditor. Co-ops have to present financial statements and, in some cases, undergo an audit. These need to be presented to its members and the government. This will provide an overview of the co-operative’s assets, liabilities, revenue, expenses, and general financial health. Typically, a treasurer will provide a supplementary report that offers further insight into the organization’s finances, explains investments, or highlights achievements.
Resolutions and strategy
An important part of being a co-op member is having the right to vote on important decisions through resolutions. Resolutions might include changing bylaws, deciding to partner with another organization, investing in a new initiative, or studying a new strategic direction. Resolutions are a way for a co-op’s members to formally declare a commitment. Any member can submit a resolution, usually before the AGM. Resolutions may also be submitted by the board if they require support from the members. In some cases, the board may call a special meeting of the members to vote on an important resolution (e.g. removal of a director, appointment of a new auditor, proposed amalgamation, etc.).
Every co-op is required to vote on a resolution to appoint an auditor for the coming fiscal year to conduct the financial review. This auditor is usually an accountant, but could be someone with relevant experience that can do a less intensive review. Whether or not a co-op needs to have an audit will depend on the requirements set out by the government in your province — if you’re not sure if your co-op needs an audit, we can help you figure that out.
Presentation of the Budget
A budget is a good way to outline the co-op’s anticipated spending for the year, and helps the board manage its finances responsibly. It also gives members some insight and input on the co-op’s direction. Giving members the chance to sit on a finance committee and participate in the creation of the budget is great way to encourage member involvement and get new ideas.
Elections
All co-ops must elect members to their boards. To increase interest in these elections, many co-ops allow speeches before voting, release profiles of the nominees, or engage members through social media. In many co-operatives, elections are not competitive and boards are unable to fill their maximum number of directors. In these cases, the members simply vote to approve the slate of candidates. Only when there are more candidates than available positions on the board do members need to vote with ballots. Check out our Guidelines for Co-op Elections for more information on how to run an election at a co-operative annual general meeting.
Roles in an AGM
The people in charge of running an AGM should have a good understanding of their roles and responsibilities. An AGM doesn’t need to be a very formal event — but it’s important to have structure to make sure that all the business on the agenda gets covered.
Here are some of the roles you might see at an Co-operative AGM:
Sample AGM Agenda
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