The Un-definitive list of Black Coops in Philly
- Yoshi
- Apr 13
- 5 min read
Where to find Black cooperatives to get involved with in Philly?
In our previous blog post, "What is a Coop, Cooperative, or Collective? A Beginner’s Guide to Empowering the Black Diaspora Through Shared Ownership and Economic Liberation," we explored how cooperatives, or coops, offer a powerful tool for economic empowerment and community building towards our collective liberation.
Simply put, a coop is a business model where the members ARE the owners, sharing in the decision-making, profits, and responsibilities. This model promotes sustainability and autonomy, giving people, especially in historically marginalized communities, control over their tangible and intangible resources.
At Nriife Roots, we believe deeply that collective action is the only way to achieve Black liberation.
So, more specifically, why should you patronize and consider joining a cooperative?
Coops not only provide diverse opportunities and shared wealth, but they also offer a space for collective action that strengthens communities. By supporting Black-owned coops, you're investing in the power of collective change and helping to build self-sustaining eco systems where Black people can begin to thrive, not just survive.
Globally, 2025 is the year of the coop and Philadelphia was the first U.S. City to “officially” declare it as such, and given we’re based in Philly, we only thought it appropriate that we dive a little deeper into Black-owned cooperatives in our area, showcasing the good work they’re doing.
Check out our Un-definitive List of Black Cooperatives in Philly
Making Worlds Cooperative Bookstore & Social Center
Letting them speak for themselves:
“Making Worlds is a nonprofit cooperative bookstore and social center that promotes collective knowledge, skills, and visions of liberation from our communities. By distributing literature and other resources, as well as fostering a vibrant cultural programming space, we aim to strengthen neighborhood and Philadelphia grassroots organizing for people to care and support each other and make worlds of liberation possible.”
Our two cents:
They offer a HUGE selection of books, both in store and online(BUT GO TO THE STORE!). Additionally, they offer a ton of events, both stand alone and with partners across the city. They practice what they preach. We highly recommend following them on Instagram to stay up to date on book releases and events!
Home Care Associates
Letting them speak for themselves:
“Caregiver-owned companies are invested in your care. Providing quality care doesn't come down to large marketing budgets or national branding. Quality comes from a personal investment in each and every client.”
Our two cents:
This cooperative is a powerful example that any company can be formed as a cooperative. Not only have they been recognized for the exceptional quality of care they provide, but their acclaimed training program also sets a high standard in both the cooperative and home care communities. These accolades directly benefit the worker-owners and the individuals they serve—because for them, this isn’t just a job, it’s their business, their calling, and their passion.
If you—or someone you know—are seeking compassionate, high-quality home or respite care in Philadelphia, keep this cooperative in mind. A simple recommendation can help support countless families, uplift care workers with livable wages, ensure dignified service, and contribute to building generational wealth through ownership. You can also support their mission by recommending or enrolling in their training program—an opportunity to gain valuable skills, join a supportive community, and take part in transforming care through cooperative ownership.
Black Farmers Co-op Philadelphia
Letting them speak for themselves:
“Black Famers Co-op in Philadelphia is addressing food insecurity. Through educational forums Black Farmers Co-op teaches hydroponics and indoor farming techniques. Supporting our efforts helps to save lives and increase the quality of life for many people”
Our two cents:
While they do not have a very staunch online presence, during the summer months I would turn on your alerts! Keep your eyes peeled for when they post events and market days on social media, especially instagram but they tend to pst workshops on facebook! Tap in with these folks for your coop grow produce.
Black Docents Collective
Letting them speak for themselves:
“Our Mission is to educate, empower and heal the Philadelphia African American community through the celebration of our history, culture and African values.”
Our two cents:
GO TO THEIR YOUTUBE PAGE! Full disclosure, they haven’t uploaded a video in a year as of the time of this writing but their website is active and if you like to educate yourself or are an educator they and their website are an amazing resource to learn about African-American history, especially with some local context!
Nriife Roots Collective
Letting them speak for themselves:
“Nriife Roots is a Collective that aims to be a catalyst for the holistic betterment of the African diaspora community through our 5 pillars. We offer a wide range of services and programs to help values-aligned individuals and organizations catalyze positive change in themselves and their communities.
Our two cents:
You know we had to do it! Browse our website to see what we’re about and if you’re so inclined, let’s connect!
Honorable mentions
NJ Black Farmers Cooperative
Not IN Philly, but they're probably Eagles fans so, we guess they’re alright.
Letting them speak for themselves:
“NJ Black Farmers Coop fosters food sovereignty, sustainability, & economic empowerment for Black farmers thru education, collective action, & policy advocacy—restoring ancestral ag traditions & strengthening local food systems 4 community resilience.”
Our two cents:
This coop is INCREDIBLY active in the area. Whether it’s market days or community events you can catch them EVERYWHERE! So we had to mention them. They especially offer a lot of programming for youth independently and through partnerships. They do not have an official website but they are active on both Facebook and Instagram.
FarmerJawn
Not a coop, but still DOING THE WORK
Letting them speak for themselves:
“FarmerJawn is reintroducing farming into the lifestyles of urban people to cultivate physical, social, & environmental health...We are increasing Awareness around the challenges and opportunities plaguing our society while also creating Lifestyle products to live happier and healthier lives.”
Our two cents:
If you are in the Philadelphia area, you should DEFINITELY join the largest Black-woman owned regenerative organic produce farm in America’s CSA (Produce Subscription Program). Her and her team are getting it done at all levels. Besides their CSA, they offer plenty of opportunity for you to get your hands in the dirt yourself, with volunteer days all throughout the growing season.
We KNOW we missed plenty, so leave your COOP’s info, links, and socials in the comments—we want to hear from you!
***All Information is directly from the coops website or social media, if you do not wish to be included in this list, feel free to contact us to be removed***
Comments