Interdisciplinary Research and Information Centre on Collective Enterprises

For a more solidarity-based economy inspired by the common good

Active for nearly six decades, the CIRIEC-Canada (Interdisciplinary Research and Information Centre on Collective Enterprises) brings together both collective members — including public enterprises, cooperatives, mutual societies, associations, workers’ funds, trade unions, university research centres and training institutes — and individual members, such as researchers, academics, students and practitioners.

The purpose of this scientific association is to contribute to the development of a plural economy by providing informed and critical support for the growth of the collective economy (social and public economy) and by promoting the common good in socio-economic development.

To bring together academics (professors, researchers and students), as well as all other individuals, associations, enterprises, institutions and organisations interested in collective enterprises: public enterprises and social economy organisations (cooperatives, associations, non-profit organisations and mutual societies);
To establish dynamic and productive partnerships between the fields of research and education and those of practice and enterprise;
To stimulate, support and disseminate research, dialogue and initiatives involving one or more academic disciplines within the relevant field;
To enable as many members as possible to participate in national and international exchanges, projects and forums;
To encourage and support, within its means, the development and dissemination of knowledge and experience relating to the advancement of a more democratic and solidarity-based economy through the various dimensions of the public and social economy (cooperatives, associations, non-profit organisations and mutual societies).

Mission

In a context marked by the centralisation and concentration of economic decision-making, it is becoming increasingly important to develop and strengthen various forms of economic organisation that enable individuals and communities to increase their influence over the economic decisions affecting their lives.