The Nexus Worker Ownership Initiative (WOI) is a bold effort to change the face of business by promoting worker ownership. The Initiative builds community wealth, grows the region’s economy and encourages workplace democracy. It advances worker ownership by seizing opportunities presented by the wave of retiring business owners in the Twin Cities.

80% of owners in the US have NO succession plan.
Our Strategy

Public Sector Engagement
Shifting policies and practices at the local, county and state levels.

Private Sector Cultivation
Building relationships with owners, chambers of commerce and business connectors.

Investment Capital
Ensuring access to capital and financial supports through CDFI’s, social investors, credit unions and banks.

Business Conversion Services
Providing professional services for owners through each stage of the conversion process. To explore more about business conversions, visit our partner Project Equity.

Workforce Development
Embedding work-ownership in workforce and job creation efforts.

Field Building
Contributing knowledge, evaluation tools and raising awareness in the field.

Awareness and Engagement
Working with community leaders, organizers and labor groups to activate their networks.