A partnership between two thriving cooperative ecosystems;

We provide interconnected and intergenerational shared learning spaces, shared training, and shared resources to build a robust, inclusive, just, community-driven economy across our WNC region and beyond.

How we got here

Take a look at our logo (to the left), it explains it all.

We took time to dig deep into researching mycelium (MY•SEL•EE•UHM) — the vegetative part of a fungus, consisting of a network of fine white filaments called hyphae. They are of vital importance to soil. Mycelium breaks down organic material, making its raw materials available again for use in the regeneration process. 

As mycelium grows, it branches out to build a vast network. Our two cooperative ecosystems are distinct however, much like mycelium, underneath the surface, we share resources (like trainings and tools) through our network, Power of the Commons.

Both Poder EMMA and The Industrial Commons are rooted in local places, histories, identities, cultures, languages, lives, experiences, wisdom, youth, leadership, and participation. Although we are distinct, we share the same values, and it is through both our differences and our similarities that we learn together to build thriving communities.