Bahamas Co-operative League Limited

Where Ownership Begins

Strengthening Communities Through Co-operation

Discover how credit unions and co-operatives empower Bahamians to build stronger financial futures.

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WHAT IS A CO-OPERATIVE?

A co-operative is an organization owned and governed by the people it serves. Members work together to meet shared economic, social, and community needs through collective ownership and democratic decision-making.

Across the world, co-operatives empower individuals and communities to create opportunities, strengthen local economies, and build sustainable futures.

Seven Co-operative Principles

Voluntary and Open Membership

Credit unions are open to all without gender, social, racial, political, or religious discrimination. You may join, or leave at any time. Everyone is Welcome!

Democratic Control

One member, one vote. Co-operatives are democratic organizations owned and controlled by their members, one member one vote, with equal opportunity for participation in setting policies and making decisions. Members elect the board of directors.

Members' Economic Participation

Our members are the owners. Owners contribute equitably to, the capital of the co-operative.
The economic benefits of a co-operative operation are returned to the members, reinvested in credit unions or used to provide services that benefit the owners. Each member owns the business.

Autonomy and Independence

Co-operatives are autonomous, self-help organizations controlled by their Owners. Together, you are autonomous.

Education, Training and Information

Credit unions place particular importance on educational opportunities for their volunteer directors, and financial education for their members and the public, especially the nation’s youth. Credit unions also recognize the importance of ensuring the general public and policy makers are informed about the nature, structure and benefits of co-operatives. Share, learn and grow.

Cooperation Among Co-operatives

Co-operatives serve their Owners most effectively and strengthen the co-operative movement by working together through local, regional, national and international structures. You are more successful when you cooperate with others who know how to cooperate. Together we achieve more.

Concern for Community

While focusing on Owner needs, Credit Unions work for the sustainable development of their communities through policies accepted by their Owners. You can do something for the community even as you keep succeeding. Building strong communities.

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Credit Unions: Co-operation in Action

Credit unions represent one of the most visible and impactful forms of co-operative organizations in The Bahamas. Owned by their members, credit unions provide accessible financial services while supporting the economic well-being of communities.

Through savings programs, lending services, and financial education, credit unions help Bahamians achieve greater financial stability and opportunity.

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The National Voice of Co-operatives

The Bahamas Co-operative League Limited serves as the non-governmental apex body for co-operatives in The Bahamas. The League supports the co-operative movement through education, advocacy, training, and industry development.

By working with member organizations, policymakers, and communities, the League helps strengthen co-operative institutions and promote the principles of collective ownership and mutual support.

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National Impact

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Strengthening Communities Across The Bahamas

Co-operatives and credit unions play an important role in strengthening communities throughout the islands.
By promoting financial inclusion, supporting local development, and empowering members, these institutions help create opportunities that benefit individuals and families across the country.

Real Stories from Our Community

Testimonials

For most of my life I was a single mother and my Credit Union has helped me to achieve all the major goals in life through financial advice, and assistance in a friendly open atmosphere.

Catherine Demeritte

National Workers Cooperative Credit Union

I am extremely grateful for the Bahamas Cooperative League and their mission to give back to our community by way of investing in education of students.
This scholarship has made life much easier for me as I was able to use it towards my semester fees, textbooks and summer classes.

Jamie Emmanuel

2015 Scholarship Recipient

In the Christmas season of 2009, I lost my home to a devastating fire. I went to all the banks to assist me with a loan to rebuild. When the banks said no, the Credit Union said Yes!

Erika Perpall

Public Workers Cooperative Credit Union