Built Different, On Purpose
Vinerals Technologies is a solidarity cooperative - a social enterprise owned by workers and community, not investors seeking maximum returns.
What is a Solidarity Cooperative?
A solidarity cooperative (coopérative de solidarité in French) is a unique Quebec business structure that brings together three types of members:
- ✓Worker members: Developers and staff who work in the co-op
- ✓User members: Clients who use our services (optional)
- ✓Supporting members: Community stakeholders who believe in our mission
Each member has one vote, regardless of their investment. Profits are reinvested in the mission, distributed fairly to worker-members, or allocated to a community fund - not extracted for external shareholders.
The Seven Cooperative Principles
Cooperatives worldwide operate according to seven principles established by the International Cooperative Alliance. Here is how we live them:
Voluntary & Open Membership
Anyone who can use our services and accepts membership responsibilities can join. We do not discriminate.
Democratic Member Control
One member, one vote. Major decisions are made collectively through democratic processes.
Member Economic Participation
Members contribute equitably and control capital democratically. Surpluses are reinvested or distributed fairly.
Autonomy & Independence
We are self-governed by our members. No external investors control our direction or extract profits.
Education, Training & Information
We invest in member development and educate the public about the cooperative model.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
We work with other co-ops, share resources, and strengthen the cooperative movement.
Concern for Community
We work for the sustainable development of our communities through policies approved by our members - like offering discounted rates to non-profits and social enterprises.
Why We Chose This Structure
Mission Over Profit
Traditional corporations are legally required to maximize shareholder value. As a cooperative, we can prioritize our mission - making technology accessible - over profit extraction.
Fair Pricing
Without pressure to deliver 30-40% margins to investors, we can charge what is fair rather than what the market will bear. This means 50-70% cost savings for our clients.
Worker Ownership
Developers who build the software have a say in how the company runs. This leads to better decisions, higher quality work, and sustainable workloads.
Long-Term Thinking
No investors demanding quick exits or endless growth. We can focus on building lasting client relationships and sustainable operations.
How This Benefits You
Our cooperative structure is not just good for us - it creates direct benefits for our clients:
- ✓50-70% cost savings: Without investor profit margins, we charge $40-150/hour vs traditional agencies at $150-300/hour
- ✓Aligned incentives: We succeed when you succeed, not when we maximize billable hours
- ✓Stable team: Worker ownership means low turnover. The developers who start your project finish it
- ✓Mission-aligned work: We choose clients whose missions we believe in, leading to better outcomes
- ✓Transparent governance: You can see how decisions are made and trust there are no hidden agendas
How We Are Governed
We operate with democratic governance while maintaining the ability to move quickly:
General Assembly
All members meet quarterly to review financials, approve major decisions, and elect the board of directors. One member, one vote.
Board of Directors
Elected board (worker and community representatives) provides strategic oversight and ensures we stay true to our mission.
Day-to-Day Operations
Worker-members make operational decisions collaboratively using consensus when possible, voting when needed. Technical decisions are made by those closest to the work.
Profit Distribution
After reserves and reinvestment, surpluses are distributed based on hours worked (patronage) rather than capital invested. A portion goes to community development.
Part of Quebec's Social Economy
Vinerals Technologies is proud to be part of Quebec's vibrant social economy ecosystem - a network of 11,000+ enterprises that prioritize social and environmental goals alongside financial sustainability.
We work with and are supported by organizations including:
Conseil québécois de la coopération et de la mutualité (CQCM)
Quebec's cooperative network providing support, advocacy, and connections.
Learn moreChantier de l'économie sociale
Network promoting and supporting Quebec's social economy enterprises.
Learn moreRISQ (Réseau d'investissement social du Québec)
Social finance network providing patient capital to social enterprises.
Learn moreReady to Build Something Great?
Free consultation. No pressure. Let's talk about what technology can do for your business.