Mission The co-op is designed to help students create, connect, and sell! Through workshops, we aim to help students develop their craft, try out new media, and learn about the process of setting up and maintaining a small business. We aim to create an open space for students to bond with others who share the same dream of stepping into the small business world through a creative lens, empowering independent creators to break through the intimidating barriers that obstruct first-time business founders. We also provide space for local residents in Isla Vista and anyone in Santa Barbara County to sell their belongings from their residence at Yard Sale and Swapmeet Events.
Membership Benefits Members are given priority in being considered for vendor positions at our events, gaining access to IV community spaces that would otherwise be difficult to book. Members also integrate into our supportive network, interacting with currently-practicing vendors who have prior experience running small businesses. Here at the co-op, students can get hands-on experience about event planning through helping prepare markets, can learn more about different artistic disciplines from workshops set up by experienced creators, and can engage in small business on their own terms with the full support of our team!