Employee Ownership
Trusts (EOTs)
An Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) is a trust that holds some or all of the shares of a company on behalf of the employees. An EOT ensures employees have a share in profits, a voice in governance, and that the mission of the business - and its jobs - can be preserved for generations to come.
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How it Works
Step 1
Purpose Trust Creation
The company sets up a trust, which holds company shares on behalf of employees
Step 2
Governance Creation
Business owners work with EOT experts to create governance policies that help define organization goals into the future
Step 3
Employee Benefits
Shares are allocated to employees based on factors such as salary or tenure
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Benefits of EOTs
Share in the profits and financial success of the business
Improved job satisfaction and security
Flexible structure that can be designed to fit the specific goals of each business
Long-term preservation of company values and culture
Option to protect the company from future sale and preserve the employee ownership structure
Case Study: Preserving our Food Systems
Organically Grown Company
Organically Grown Company (OGC) sprouted in Eugene, Oregon in 1978, founded by small-scale farmers, gardeners, and environmentalists who believed in raising healthy food on healthy soil. What began as a nonprofit co-op to share information and buy supplies has grown into a trusted partner for retailers and communities across the country.
At OGC, organic is at the heart of everything they do. Through research, advocacy, and deep commitment to their customers, they work to build trust, strengthen retail partnerships, and expand access to healthy, organic food.
