Secretary Rollins Proclaimed National Cooperative Month
The USDA marked the 62nd anniversary of the movement by highlighting billions in support for rural cooperatives.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Organic Food
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Secretary Brooke L. Rollins officially proclaimed October 2026 as National Cooperative Month to celebrate the 62nd anniversary of the initiative. The move coincides with a period of significant federal backing for member-owned organizations across the nation.
Why it matters
Cooperatives play a critical role in the administration's strategy to bolster the economy and provide resources to rural communities. Celebrating the month serves to highlight how these entities support local development and regional economic stability.
The USDA has provided $18.1 billion in financial assistance to 242 cooperatives since the start of the current administration. This recognition marks the 62nd anniversary of the annual event, which is themed Built for this Moment for 2026.
The players
Brooke L. Rollins
She is the Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture who issued the formal proclamation.
USDA Rural Development
This federal entity manages the financial assistance programs and oversight for cooperatives throughout the country.
National Cooperative Business Association
This national trade association selected the theme Built for this Moment for the 62nd anniversary celebration.
The details
The USDA manages these investments through its Rural Development programs, which provide essential loans and grants to businesses and cooperatives. Throughout October 2026, the department plans to conduct extensive outreach and partnership activities to spotlight these successful rural initiatives.
Timeline
October 1, 2026: Secretary Rollins issued the official National Cooperative Month proclamation.
October 2026: The month-long period dedicated to celebrating national cooperative achievements.
Roadmap
This investment trajectory follows the federal mandate provided by the USDA Rural Development funding authorization. The ongoing support underscores a broader shift toward using member-owned cooperative models to drive economic resilience in rural markets.
These federal investments directly support the infrastructure and services provided by local rural cooperatives, which often manage essential food and utility supplies. Residents should monitor local cooperative announcements to see how these grants affect regional service rates or project expansions.
The takeaway
Cooperatives remain a vital engine for economic empowerment in rural regions across the country. Readers in rural areas can engage with their local cooperative boards to better understand how current federal grants are being deployed in their specific communities.
What happens next
The USDA will host a series of outreach and partnership events throughout the remainder of October 2026 to highlight department investments in cooperatives.
Further reading
Learn more about the federal support for member-owned businesses on the Organic Food section of our site.
More information
View full details on federal support programs at the USDA Rural Development Cooperative Services portal.
Live Poll
Do you believe federal investments in local cooperatives effectively strengthen your community's economy?
