La Fédération des coopératives du Nouveau-Québec (FCNQ), which was founded in 1967, is a network of 14 co-operatives located in Inuit communities along the coasts of Hudson Bay and Ungava Bay. The FCNQ's mission is to support these co-operatives by providing them with resources and services that foster their collective growth, guided by the principle of Atautsikut/Together—working together to develop as a people without leaving anyone behind.
These co-operatives are much more than just retail businesses; they're at the heart of Nunavik's economic and social development. They offer their members a wide range of essential services, including grocery stores, banking services, communication infrastructure, hotel management, the marketing of Inuit art, fuel supply, renewable energy and mining transportation. The FCNQ helps strengthen the autonomy of Inuit communities and preserve their culture while promoting sustainable development tailored to the northern reality.
Today, the co-operative movement is the largest non-governmental employer in the region, with more than 930 full-time employees and more than 700 seasonal employees in Nunavik, as well as 215 full-time employees in Montréal and 230 employees in its subsidiaries. Its governance model, based on local management by Inuit and Cree staff, ensures that expertise and economic benefits remain within the communities.
By fostering mutual support and innovation, the FCNQ exemplifies the strength of the co-operative model in Northern Canada. It is a powerful example of how cooperation can be a catalyst for economic and social development in remote communities, while honouring local values and traditions.
For more information on co-operatives in Quebec, visit the Quebec government's co-operatives web page (in French only).
To register a co-operative in Quebec, visit Ministère de l'Économie, de l'Innovation et de l'Énergie web page (in French only). For enquiries, email dir.coop@economie.gouv.qc.ca.
Additional information is available from the Conseil québécois de la coopération et de la mutualité (in French only) and the Coopérative de développement régional du Québec.