A Member-Owned,
Member-Governed
Health Care Cooperative
 Agriculture and agribusiness is Minnesota's largest basic industry, with about one-fourth of the state's labor force employed in this area. Obtaining both comprehensive and affordable health insurance for those involved in agriculture has become increasingly difficult, especially for producers.
40 Square Cooperative Solutions serves to address this problem.
What are we attempting to offer?
- A member-owned and member-governed organization
- Health care information and education relevant to the agriculture industry
- Assisting individuals to make healthier decisions by providing wellness information and wellness plans
- Offering affordable health insurance options
Why a cooperative?
Cooperatives combine the interest of the consumer with the interest of the producer or service provider to meet the needs of the consumer-owner.
Minnesota is the #1 co-op state in the nation and our rural communities have historically used the cooperative model to solve many of the state’s problems. Telecommunications, electrification and grain marketing are examples of cooperatives at work.
Who is involved in this effort?
The following three cooperatives have been working together for the past four years to create an innovative and viable solution:
- Cooperative Network in Saint Paul, the Minnesota-Wisconsin cooperative trade association representing cooperatives in all industries
- United Farmers Cooperative (UFC), an agricultural supply cooperative headquartered in Winthrop
- AgStar Financial Services, an agricultural financial services cooperative headquartered in Mankato
Will the national health care bill affect 40 Square’s implementation?
We do not anticipate any conflicts with the national health care bill, dependent upon the final language passed by Congress. Should the final version affect the cooperative, it will take three or four years for any law to be implemented. There still will be a need for a health care alternative until a national program takes effect.
What are the costs involved with 40 Square?
As with many cooperatives, a membership fee will be required to join 40 Square. This will not only support the cooperative’s operations, but assist in the financial stability of the cooperative as a whole.
Because Cooperative Network members pay dues to support this project, Cooperative Network members will receive a substantial membership discount.
40 Square members will have the option of three different levels of affordable insurance coverage. Because we are still working with state regulators, we are unable to share plan details and costs. This information will be made available when the proper state approvals have been obtained.
When will 40 Square Cooperative Solutions begin?
Our actual launch date depends upon the approval of necessary insurance contracts. Further information, including membership enrollment, will be posted on this site, when available.
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