Behind the map: How it works
The Cooperative World Map is an accessible, shared, and open digital platform. It is built with open-source mapping and data-sharing technology, which allows the CWM to house publicly owned and available data that is voluntarily shared by cooperative organizations. This enables the CWM to present the ecosystem of co-ops and their support organizations around the world in a centralized location.
The data is provided by a network of cooperative organizations who share their data. This data is managed by the DC Alliance – a collaboration of DotCoop and Digital Commons Cooperative, who jointly manage the relationships with members of this cooperative network. The DC Alliance oversees the data sharing process, and the efficacy of the technology supporting the CWM.
As time goes on, we will be expanding the access and depth of the Cooperative World Map project, and will present more information here. Check back to see new updates as we have them.
The map launching at the end of 2024 is just the start! We are actively exploring partnerships with a variety of organizations, including those in the co-op model and others supporting the global network. Exciting developments are on the horizon throughout 2025 and beyond, and we look forward to having you with us on this journey.