Proactivity and competitiveness of cooperatives: towards a sustainable growth model

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between proactivity, competitiveness, and sustainability in the context of cooperatives. Through a critical review of recent academic literature and the analysis of exemplary cases, we identify the mechanisms by which cooperatives can develop a proactive entrepreneurial orientation while preserving their core values. Our findings reveal that participatory governance, member engagement, and cooperative networks are major drivers of proactivity. We also demonstrate how cooperatives can transform their unique characteristics into competitive advantages, particularly through value-based differentiation, collective efficiency via resource pooling, and superior resilience to economic shocks. Finally, we identify several sustainable growth models specific to cooperatives, characterized by strong territorial anchoring, coherent diversification, and a focus on social innovation and ecological transition. These results suggest that cooperatives, far from being forced to choose between fidelity to their values and economic performance, can develop original models combining entrepreneurial proactivity, sustainable competitiveness, and multidimensional positive impact.

Classification JEL : L31

Paper type : Theorical Research