Cooperative Economy
CRL nurtures cooperative business development and collaborative arrangements among sole proprietors to support the restoration forestry economy. As we incubate businesses and provide technical assistance for the new workforce, we seek to link together projects in ways that create a common material interest in caring for the land and caring for each other.
Incubator Program
Our Incubator Program provides a unique experience living and/or working in an ecologically-friendly, cooperative environment in rural Oregon for up to two years. Incubator participants advance small business development, non-profit projects, right livelihood endeavors, or other mission-aligned efforts. CRL welcomes residential or non-residential incubator participants – residents live in a rustic 800 sq. ft. two-story cabin and have access to garden beds, 35 acres of forest, and a workshop.
Program alumni contribute to regional rural development and become part of a network that generates social and ecological benefits. Alumni have left their mark in and around Cottage Grove by starting plant nurseries, construction companies, nonprofits, a local radio station, a Permaculture design company, a bar and music venue in Cottage Grove, eco-forestry businesses, and much more.
If you would like to incubate your own mission-aligned business or project, are interested in helping care for the CRL campus, and would like to pitch in to support our Regenerating Landscapes and/or Remaking Society programming, reach out to learn more about our Incubator Program!
Contact us to learn more about our Incubator Program.
CRL also maintains a small but growing tool library, helping rural land stewardship practitioners access practical tools and removing cost barriers.
Our efforts in cooperative development are inspired by Cooperation Jackson in the present, along with many past efforts requiring collective courage.
