12.10.2026 New for the 2026–27 winter semester: The Cooperative Economy

The Cooperative Economy

A Case-Study-Based Introduction to Business Models, Management, and Organization of Cooperatives

How can the energy transition be implemented at the local level? How can rural areas ensure affordable housing and adequate medical care? And what opportunities does a cooperative economic model open up for businesses and regions? Cooperatives offer a variety of approaches to addressing current economic and social challenges. The new course “The Cooperative Economy” offered by the ifG | Marburg Institute for Cooperative Studies invites students to explore these approaches using concrete real-world examples.

Cooperatives play a significant role in numerous sectors of the economy – from banking and housing to retail and energy supply. This course covers the theoretical foundations and distinctive features of this organizational form and examines how cooperative business models function in various industries and countries. The focus is on issues of management and organization, as well as the possibilities and limitations of cooperative solutions.

A particular focus is placed on direct interaction with the field: Students work in small groups on specific case studies and conduct interviews with cooperative experts, whose contacts are arranged by the ifG Marburg. The international perspectives span Germany and Europe, as well as Africa and South America. Participants present their findings in their own podcast.

The course is taught by Dr. Andreas Wieg, a graduate of the School of Business & Economics at Marburg University. He currently serves as a department head on the Executive Board of the German Cooperative and Raiffeisen Association (DGRV) and heads the “Energy Cooperatives” federal office.

The 6-LP module is intended for bachelor’s and master’s students in relevant degree programs. No specific prior knowledge is required. Full details regarding the course schedule and registration can be found in the [course announcement].

We look forward to welcoming interested students who would like to learn about cooperative business models and develop new perspectives on community-based economic activity through interaction with professionals in the field.