The cooperative sector in Latin America and the Caribbean promotes inter-cooperation as a driver of development
In an effort to address the complex economic, technological, and social challenges of today, leaders of the cooperative movement in Latin America and the Caribbean met in Punta Cana. During the VII International Cooperative Congress of the Federation of Cooperatives of the Northeast Region (FECOOPNORDESTE), the urgent need to consolidate strategic alliances that allow for the transformation of the sector’s future was emphasized.
The event, which brought together specialists from nations such as Brazil, Colombia, Honduras, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic, served as a platform to analyze how inter-cooperation can serve as an effective tool for resource optimization, driving innovation, and expanding community impact.
Collaboration as a growth strategy
David Polanco, president of FECOOPNORDESTE, stressed that the success of modern cooperatives no longer depends on individual effort, but on the ability to weave solid collaborative networks. According to Polanco, sustained growth is intrinsically linked to the ability to share services and leverage collective strengths.
There is no cooperative so strong that it has reached this point alone. There are networks that decided to walk together.
David Polanco, president of FECOOPNORDESTE
The leader called for a transition from theory to practice, urging organizations to implement concrete mechanisms that allow for the generation of shared knowledge and improve the comprehensive sustainability of the cooperative movement.
Success models and future vision
Under the slogan “Intercooperating is the key: networks, circuits, and a cooperative future,” the congress highlighted successful international experiences, among which the Sicredi model from Brazil stood out. Mario Gustavo Aquino, Director of Supervision at the Sicredi Central, shared the details of their shared governance system, offering a clear example of how operational integration can scale positive results.
- Participation of key entities such as the Red Coopcentral of Colombia, Visionamos, and the Federation of Savings and Credit Cooperatives of Honduras (FACACH).
- Inauguration of a new FECOOPNORDESTE headquarters, focused on cooperative education and the development of joint projects.
- Focus on technological innovation and intelligent management as pillars of competitiveness.
The meeting, which took place from August 7 to 9 at the Barceló Bávaro Hotel Convention Center, concluded with the firm intention of turning the agreements reached into tangible projects. For the sector’s representatives, the cooperation not only strengthens the financial and social institutions involved, but also represents a real commitment to building a more equitable and prosperous socioeconomic environment for the entire region.
