Overview
AGMs are more than just formalities—they’re opportunities to strengthen the cooperative’s democratic foundation. Unfortunately, many co-ops struggle with low turnout and limited participation. This guide offers tested strategies to increase attendance and engagement before, during, and after your AGM.
Core Tactics:
- Promote early and with intention. Begin communications at least 6–8 weeks in advance. Use member testimonials or past highlights to build anticipation.
- Offer hybrid or flexible formats. Virtual and hybrid options eliminate access barriers. Consider hosting short pre-AGM sessions to explain complex topics.
- Make it social. Add community-building elements like food, music, or member recognition awards to encourage attendance.
- Gamify engagement. Use prize draws, polls, or interactive questions to make voting and participation more engaging.
- Follow up with purpose. Share outcomes, decisions made, and next steps. Let members know their participation mattered.
Suggested Resources:
AGM Promotional Timeline Checklist:
| Week | Activity |
| -8 | Save the date announcement |
| -6 | Open registration and share agenda |
| -4 | Share member testimonials |
| -2 | Reminder email with key highlights |
| -1 | Social media countdown begins |
| 0 | Day-of logistics + live engagement tips |
| +1 | Post-event thank you + survey |
| +2 | Share decisions and recorded content |
Download AGM Promotional Timeline Checklist (Google Sheet)
Sample AGM Social Media Campaign Assets:
| Post Type | Message Example |
| Save-the-Date | “Mark your calendars! Our AGM is happening soon! 🗓️” |
| Member Testimonial | “Hear why Maria never misses our AGM! 🎤 #CoopVoices” |
| Countdown Post | “Only 3 days left until our biggest member event! 🎉” |
| Day-Of Reminder | “Join us today at 6PM! Check your inbox for the link.” |
| Post-Event Followup | “Thanks for attending! Here’s what we decided together.” |
Download Sample AGM Social Media Assets (Google Doc)
AGM Attendance Tracking Sheet:
| Member Name | Member ID | RSVP Received | Attended | Notes |
| Jane Doe | 00123 | Yes | Yes | Asked 2 questions |
| John Smith | 00145 | No | No | |
| Lee Chan | 00167 | Yes | No | Sent regrets |
Download AGM Attendance Tracking Sheet (Google Sheet)
Post-AGM Email Structure:
| Email Type | Subject Line | Key Content Summary |
| Thank You | “Thanks for joining our AGM!” | Express appreciation, link to post-event survey |
| Decisions Summary | “Here’s what we decided together” | Bullet list of motions passed, board elections, next steps |
| Engagement Follow-up | “Stay engaged: What’s next for our co-op” | Volunteer callouts, upcoming events, committee opportunities |