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OntarBio Organic Farmers' Co-operative Membership
Benefits of Membership:
The Co-op provides the marketing and sales for organically grown products
The Co-op is owned by the members
Equal voting rights for all shareholding members
The opportunity to run for a seat on the Board of Directors
Supportive organic farming communities in Eastern, Central and Southwestern Ontario
Mentoring and peer support through all phases of transition and membership
Regular producer meetings for feedback and input into all major issues affecting the Co-op
Successful consumer products marketed under a nationally recognized brand name - Organic Meadow
Strong membership, marketing, distribution and management structure supporting the growth and success of the organization
Membership Requirements:
Membership is open to everyone - both certified organic farmers who participate by selling their products and those who
believe in the values of the Co-op and with to support it
OntarBio is a co-op where members must purchase shares to obtain voting rights
All producer members must purchase 10 Common Shares and 10 Preferred Shares at $100 per share for a total commitment of $2000
Common shares are generally held by the producer members of the Co-op and entitle a member to one vote at a shareholders meeting
Money invested by way of common shares is used to finance equipment purchases and the daily operations of the Co-op
Preferred shares can be owned by anyone - organic farmers who participate by selling their products as well as those who believe in the
values of the Co-op and wish to contribute
Although preferred shares are not voting shares, preferred shareholders are eligible to receive a yearly dividend
The total investment of $2000 can be paid in one payment or in a series of payments over as many as five years
Each shareholder receives a mailing once a year including financial statements and a report from the president
describing the activites of the past year and the goals for the upcoming year
Other regular communications from the Co-op will include a newsletter, Co-op updates and invitations to regular social events
All members are encouraged to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting
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