Wellspring Cooperative Corporation

Target demographics: Low income and unemployed residents of the city and create a more just and sustainable economy

Direct beneficiaries per year: 4 working co-op businesses, 18 employees, 2 Coop Bootcamp courses at Springfield Technical Community College

Geographic areas served: The Springfield, Massachusetts area

Programs: (1) Creation & Support of Springfield Co-ops: Wellspring Harvest Greenhouse - The first commercial hydroponic greenhouse in the City of Springfield. It is for profit worker-owned business that grows and sells several varieties of healthy, locally grown lettuce to area hospitals, schools, businesses, and residents. Old Window Workshop - A women-owed window restoration cooperative. There is a huge supply of old, leaky and damaged windows that can be restored and complemented with insulation panes as a less expensive and more environmentally friendly alternative to vinyl window replacement. Wellspring Upholstery - A full service upholstery shop that provides high quality workmanship for commercial, institutional and residential customers at competitive rates. Jumpin Jack Hoops – A worker owned co-op that makes custom hula hoops, runs workshops and does special events like birthday parties. Hooping provides a wide range of health benefits for your mind, body, and spirit by promoting weight management, core strengthening, and increased flexibility. (2) Co-op Boot Camp: Two courses at Springfield Technical Community College held annually to educate entrepreneurs on how to start their own co-op or convert their existing business to a co-op. (3) Co-op Fair: Showcasing local co-ops to the public. (4) Technical Assistance to Co-ops - Business and financial planning as well as management training and support.