As member-owners of the Rooted Carrot Co-Op Market, we’ve all been working together for over a decade to bring our shared vision of a community-driven, local food co-op to life. Now, with over 1,200 committed member-owners and more than 75 local business partners, we’re closer than ever to making this dream a reality. That’s why we’re launching the “Don’t Wait, Cooperate” campaign—a powerful effort designed to engage city council members and ensure their support in bringing the Rooted Carrot Co-Op Market to downtown Cedar Falls.
While this campaign focuses on building strong relationships with city officials, we need you, our member-owners, to be empowered advocates for the co-op. You have the unique ability to spread our message through conversations with friends, family, and even council members themselves. After all, as member-owners, your voice is central to our success!
Here’s what you need to know to feel confident in sharing our story:
Strengthening the Cedar Valley Economy
A food co-op will significantly strengthen our local economy by supporting local farmers, producers, and businesses. Unlike traditional grocery stores, a co-op ensures that dollars spent stay in our community, creating a multiplier effect that directly benefits the Cedar Valley.
- By the Numbers:
- 1,200+ member-owners: Our co-op is already a strong community of stakeholders.
- $1,000 spent at a co-op generates $1,604 in local economic activity.¹ This means co-ops have a 1.6x multiplier effect, generating far more impact than a conventional grocery store.
- 2.5 times more business with local farms.² Co-ops engage with local producers more than twice as often as traditional grocers, meaning more support for local agriculture and sustainable farming practices.
Filling the Gap in Nutrient-Dense Food Access
Surveys have shown a clear need for better grocery options in downtown Cedar Falls. The Rooted Carrot Co-Op Market is positioned to fill this gap by offering a variety of fresh, nutrient-dense, and locally sourced products. Our market will serve as a hub for high-quality, healthy food that benefits both the consumer and the community.
Innovative Partnerships for a Better Future
We’re not just building a grocery store—we’re building a community. Our co-op is eager to engage in innovative partnerships that push Cedar Valley to the forefront of local food systems and economic development. Together, we can create a vibrant space that offers fresh, nutritious options while uplifting our local economy.
How You Can Help: Don’t Wait, Cooperate
We’re counting on you to help us spread the word. Whether it’s a conversation with friends, a casual chat with family, or even a moment with a city council member, every interaction helps build momentum. Use these talking points to guide your conversations and encourage others to see the value of bringing the Rooted Carrot Co-Op Market to life.
- A co-op will strengthen our local economy by supporting local farmers and producers.
- Every $1,000 spent at a food co-op generates $1,604 in local economic activity.¹
- The Rooted Carrot Co-Op Market will fill the gap for fresh, locally sourced food in downtown Cedar Falls.
- Now is the time to make this vision a reality—our community needs it!
Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for the Cedar Valley. Don’t wait—cooperate with us to bring the Rooted Carrot Co-Op Market to life.
For more information and to get involved, visit RootedCarrot.coop.
Citations:
¹ Cooperative Grocer Network
² 20 Food Cooperatives Building Resilient Communities – Food Tank