Co-operatives are organizations owned and operated by a group of individuals for their mutual benefit. Members come together to meet common economic, social, or cultural needs, often pooling resources to achieve goals that would be difficult to accomplish alone. Examples include credit unions, food co-ops, and housing co-operatives. In a co-operative, each member typically has an equal say in decision-making, regardless of their investment size. This democratic structure promotes collaboration and ensures that profits are distributed fairly among members. Co-operatives can be found in various sectors, including agriculture, retail, and services, fostering community development and sustainability.