About Us

The Illinois Cooperative Council (ICC) was organized in 1966 to promote the growth and development of Illinois cooperatives. The Council is dedicated to promoting a positive business climate for cooperatives, increasing the public’s understanding and awareness of the value of cooperatives, and recognizing excellence exhibited by Illinois cooperative businesses.

Membership in the ICC includes representation from statewide cooperative businesses and associations, state government, and agricultural education institutions and organizations.

Specific activities of the council include developing cooperative educational activities for youth, encouraging active observance of National Cooperative Month annually during October, improving communications among cooperatives, encouraging leaders to publicize the purpose and accomplishments of local cooperative organizations, encouraging the development and dissemination of information relating to Illinois cooperatives, and recognizing outstanding efforts that benefit cooperatives. The ICC helps create a climate conducive for cooperative growth and understanding by the general public of the value and importance of cooperatives in their everyday life.

In 1982, the Council established an awards program to recognize, celebrate, and salute significant contributions to Illinois cooperatives.