Fellowship Graduation and Cooperative Movement Awards Night

A celebration of the next generation of cooperative entrepreneurs

Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2026

Time: 6:00-8:30 PM

Location: The Barrel Factory, 65 Vandalia St, Buffalo, NY 14204

On Wednesday, November 18, 2026 from 6 to 8:30 PM at The Barrel Factory, we’ll gather to honor the hard work and accomplishments of this year’s graduates of our Cooperative Changemakers Fellowship. These local leaders have spent 11 weeks training with experts in cooperative business, finance, and governance, and developing practical skills for an economy that puts people first.

The evening will feature dinner, networking, and a graduation ceremony that recognizes each Fellow. We will also present the annual “Living into our Values” award to one cooperative, highlighting their transformative impact on the cooperative movement and the local community.

The Cooperative Changemakers Fellowship fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the development of skills essential for building democratic power in our communities. Participants have the opportunity to engage with local cooperative leaders and develop actionable plans to bring their visions to life. Fellows graduate not only with new skills and relationships, but with the resources, confidence, and solidarity to transform our local economy.

The Fellows are an amazing group of folks and we hope you will join us in welcoming them into the cooperative community. Join us for a night of joy, celebration, and commitment to a just economy! Your ticket directly fuels entrepreneurs and new co-op businesses in Buffalo.

Reserve your ticket today!

If your organization is interested in sponsoring the event, please review the sponsorship packages here or contact Andrew at 716-541-0407 or andrew@cooperationbuffalo.org.