In this edition, we are pleased to introduce Aaron Stewart, Deputy CEO of Coop Exchange, an innovative cooperative platform. Discover his background, his motivation for joining ICIN, and how he is helping shape the future of the cooperative sector.
Read his full testimony below to learn more about his vision of innovation and the benefits of ICIN membership.
Who you are and what is your organization?
I am Aaron Stewart, Deputy CEO and Group General Counsel of Coop Exchange, a pioneering platform cooperative dedicated to facilitating sustainable investments for the cooperative and mutual sector.
What motivated you to join the ICIN, and how do you think your participation contributes to cooperative innovation?
My passion for innovation led me to participate in GCIS events in Paris and Montreal, where the dialogue was inspiring and where newly made connections brought tangible benefits. Joining ICIN was a natural progression for Coop Exchange and me, enabling us to actively contribute to the dynamic evolution of cooperative innovation. As a senior leader in a new and innovative technology platform, I hope to lend my voice and our experience to the practical application of emerging technologies.
What does innovation mean to you, and how does it shape your involvement with the ICIN cooperative?
Innovation is essential for survival; it’s not the strongest who thrive, but those most adaptable to change. The cooperative movement exemplifies this, with early pioneers disrupting business norms for community benefit. Embracing this legacy, we must continue to champion innovation, ensuring our relevance and adherence to principles have a significant impact in a rapidly evolving world.
In your opinion, what are the most significant benefits you gain from being a member of ICIN, both personally and professionally?
ICIN offers unparalleled access to a global network of thought leaders and organisations at the forefront of innovation in areas like AI but uniquely tailored to the specific needs of cooperatives. While these are early days, I’m incredibly excited about what this new initiative can deliver for coops globally. Personally, ICIN enriches my understanding, broadens my network and allows me to actively contribute to pivotal discussions shaping the future of cooperatives.
Why would you recommend others to join ICIN, and how do you think membership could benefit the broader cooperative community?
ICIN empowers us to harness the collective strength of over three million coop members, facilitating the generation of innovative ideas and solutions that benefit individual cooperatives and their communities. This collaboration not only provides practical advantages in the face of increasingly complex global challenges but also upholds our cooperative values, particularly the principles of cooperation among cooperatives and care for the community.
