From October 11 to 17, communities across Canada will celebrate Co-operative Week 2026—a time to recognize the difference co-operatives, credit unions, caisses, and mutuals make every day. This year’s theme, “Power the Economy,” highlights how the co-operative model creates lasting value for members, strengthens local communities, and contributes to a more resilient Canadian economy.
Why Co-operatives Matter
Co-operatives are businesses built around people and a shared purpose. They are owned by their members, guided by democratic participation, and designed to return value to the people and communities they serve. Because decisions are rooted in member needs, co-operatives can take a long-term view—supporting local jobs, keeping resources circulating close to home, improving access to essential products and services, and investing in stronger communities.
That is why “Power the Economy” is so timely. As Canadians navigate rising costs and uncertainty, co-operatives offer a practical, proven way to build economic strength while keeping people at the centre. When members work together, their collective participation helps create opportunities, support affordability, and build communities that are better prepared for change.
The Co-operative Difference at Innovation
As a member-owned credit union, Innovation Federal Credit Union puts co-operative values into action through everyday banking. Members have a voice, share in Innovation’s success, and help make community investment possible simply by choosing to bank with us. Our focus on Responsible Banking reflects that commitment: making banking simpler, supporting financial well-being, and giving back to the communities our members call home.
Celebrate with Us
- Co-op Week Flag Raising — Swift Current: Tuesday, October 13 at 10:00 a.m. CST at City Hall.
- Co-op Week School Breakfast – North Battleford: Thursday, October 15, 8:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. CST at John Paull II Collegiate. Students will enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast featuring muffins, granola bars, juice, and water. In partnership with Discover Co-op.
- Credit Union Day — Thursday, October 15: Visit your nearest Innovation location for coffee and treats throughout the day. Our employees will also be surprising people in their communities with Random Acts of Kindness.
- Co-op Week School Breakfast – North Battleford: Friday, October 16, 8:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. CST at the Comprehensive High School. Students will enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast featuring muffins, granola bars, juice, and water. In partnership with Discover Co-op.
- Co-op Week BBQ — Swift Current: Friday, October 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. CST in the Pioneer Co-op parking lot at Wheatland Mall. Enjoy a smokie on a bun, donut, and drink for $5, with proceeds supporting The Centre. Presented in partnership with Pioneer Co-op.
- Co-op Week BBQ — Meadow Lake: Friday, October 16 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. CST at the Meadow Lake Co-op Food Store. Enjoy a hamburger or hot dog, chips, and a drink for $5, with proceeds supporting the Meadow Lake Gymnastics Club. Presented in partnership with Meadow Lake Co-op.
Together, We Power More
Co-operative Week is a celebration, but it is also a reminder: when people come together around shared needs and shared values, they can create meaningful economic and social impact. We invite you to join us, connect with your community, and celebrate the co-operatives that help power Canada’s economy—not just for one week, but all year long.