2026 Principle 6 Conference:
Resilient communities through cooperative solutions
The 2026 Principle 6 Conference will highlight how cooperatives strengthen communities in Maine, and beyond, through collaboration, innovation, and shared values.
This year’s theme, Resilient Communities through Cooperative Solutions, invites participants to explore how cooperative approaches help address local challenges and create lasting impact.
Join us for discussions, workshops, and connections that inspire collective action and celebrate the people and organizations building a stronger, more resilient Maine together.
We’re excited to accommodate most food restrictions & offer on-site childcare, interpretation, a lactation room, and a quiet reflection space to make the conference accessible for all.
The Principle 6 Conference 2026 will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM at Edward Little High School in Auburn. The event will feature a keynote session, a celebration of Maine’s cooperative ecosystem, and three interactive workshop sessions offering multiple topics to explore. Attendees will also enjoy a complementary lunch, coffee, and networking breaks throughout the day. There will be opportunities to build relationships and strengthen Maine’s cooperative community throughout the day.
Register Now for the Principle 6 Conference
Secure your spot at the Principle 6 Conference today! Explore our ticket options, including General Admission, CMBA Member, and Donation Tickets.
Early Bird Discounted Tickets available until March 16!
Conference Schedule
Saturday, april 11, 2026
9 AM
Welcome & Co-op Ecosystem Introduction
Celebrate the co-op ecosystem and learn about local resilience efforts and collaborations.
10 AM
Networking break
10:20 AM
Workshop Session 1
- Strengthening Co-ops from the Inside (90 min)
- Focus: Internal systems, skill-building
11:50 AM
Lunch and Networking break
Enjoy lunch, rest up, and connect with fellow attendees during this networking opportunity.
12:35 PM
Keynote Session
We’re excited to welcome Doug O’Brien, President & CEO of the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International (NCBA CLUSA), as our 2026 keynote speaker!
1:35 PM
Networking Break
1:50 PM
WORKSHOP SESSION 2
- Building the Cooperative Ecosystem (90 min)
- Focus: Networks, sectors, P6 collaboration
3:20 PM
Networking Break
3:35 PM
WORKSHOP SESSION 3
- Leadership, People & Culture (60 min)
- Focus: Reflective & Hands-on
4:35 PM
Closing
We’ll close by celebrating our collective work with an ice cream mixer while sharing a few moments together.
A big thank you to our sponsors
Co-Hosts & Equitable Access Sponsors
Co-Hosts & Alliance Level Sponsors
Business Level Sponsors
Cooperative Level Sponsors
COASTAL ENTERPRISES INC. (CEI)
THE NEIGHBORING FOOD CO-OP ASSOCIATION
MAINE COOPERATIVE INVESTMENT CLUB
Visual Journey Through Our Cooperative Gatherings
