Find work through a cooperative – come explore your options!
Are you a jobseeker, a student, or considering starting your own workers' cooperative? Join our free information sessions to learn how cooperatives can support your path to employment.
A workers’ cooperative can be a flexible and secure way to work on your own terms without starting your own business. It offers an opportunity to use your skills, collaborate with others, and become self-employed – whether you’re a student or currently unemployed.
Three different events provide insights from various perspectives – choose the one that suits you best! Experts and experienced professionals will share information about how cooperatives work, how to start one, and what benefits and opportunities they offer. The events are organized in collaboration with Ostrobothnia Employment Services and Unionbridge of Employment in Ostrobothnia.
Explore the events below and sign up to join!
Workers' cooperative as a path to employment – information for jobseekers
Could a workers’ cooperative be your path to employment?
Join us for an info session to discover how a workers’ cooperative can offer a flexible way to work for yourself — without the need to start your own business.
If you’ve been wondering how to make the most of your skills and work independently in your field, this session is designed just for you.
During the event, you’ll get clear answers to key questions such as:
- What exactly is a workers’ cooperative, and how does it work in practice?
- How can you join one, and what does membership involve?
- Can you receive unemployment benefits while being part of a cooperative?
- How does working in a cooperative affect your relationship with employment services?
- Is it really possible to earn a living through a workers’ cooperative?
Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2025, 10:00 – 12:00
Location: Alma Hall, Adult Education Centre, 3rd floor, Raastuvankatu 31.
Please note: The event will be held in Finnish, but presentation materials will be in English. You’re welcome to attend even if your Finnish is still developing and you’re free to ask questions in English.
This free session is especially aimed at jobseekers looking for new ways to enter the workforce or strengthen their position in the labor market.
Being a student in a cooperative – a flexible way to work in your own field
Workers’ cooperatives – what are they and how can they help you find employment?
Are you a student wondering how you could start working in your field in Finland – flexibly and without starting your own business? If you answered yes, join this info session on workers’ cooperatives!
In this session, you’ll learn how a workers’ cooperative can give you the opportunity to work in your own field and employ yourself – without having to establish a company. You’ll also get answers to key questions such as:
- What is a workers’ cooperative and how does it work in practice?
- Could joining one affect your student financial aid or your right to study?
- What else should you know for example about taxation, work permits, or legal matters?
Date: September 3, 2025, 14:00–16:00
Location: Alma Hall, Adult Education Centre, 3rd floor, Raastuvankatu 31.
This session is free of charge and open to all international students, you are warmly welcome!
Please note: The event will be held in Finnish, but presentation materials will be in English. You’re welcome to attend even if your Finnish is still developing and you’re free to ask questions in English.
Starting a workers' cooperative – how to get started
Interested in starting a workers’ cooperative but don’t know where to begin?
If you’re already familiar with the concept of a workers’ cooperative but need practical advice and hands-on support, this info session is just for you!
Join us for a free event focused on establishing, operating, and overcoming challenges related to workers’ cooperatives.
The session features experienced cooperative mentors who will share valuable insights and practical tips on starting and managing a cooperative. Representatives from Vasek will also be present to introduce regional support options and advisory services to help you move forward.
Key topics include:
- How to start a workers’ cooperative and what to consider in the early stages
- What kinds of support and guidance are available
- The role of membership and governance in a cooperative
- How to build sustainable and profitable operations
Date: September 17, 2025, 10:00 – 14:00
Location: Alma Hall, Adult Education Centre, 3rd floor, Raastuvankatu 31.
Please note: The event will be held in Finnish, but presentation materials will be in English. You’re welcome to attend even if your Finnish is still developing and you’re free to ask questions in English.
Welcome to learn, discuss, and take your cooperative idea to the next level!