Why Join Today Instead of Waiting for the Store to Open?
Traditional grocery chains are funded by outside corporate investors who siphon profits out of the neighborhood. Cooperatives are built from the ground up by the community.
Your ownership stake in SoLA proves that there is undeniable demand for a fresh food grocer in South Los Angeles. It also provides the essential startup equity needed to secure our site, fund construction, and unlock matching capital grants. Joining now ensures we have the best possible chance of opening our store.
Benefits Available Now
You don’t have to wait for our doors to open to start receiving value. Joining SoLA now directly builds South LA's food future while giving you immediate access to local perks, community events, and ownership rights.
Official SoLA Owner Merch
Details: Every new member-owner receives a free SoLA t-shirt and official Owner Welcome Kit as a thank-you for anchoring our early development.
Event & Workshop Access
Details: Get priority registration and free or discounted tickets to SoLA pop-up markets, nutrition workshops, cooking demonstrations, and community wellness sessions.
Local Business Discounts
Details: Enjoy exclusive discounts and special offers at participating South LA Black-led and local partner businesses, health practices, and local markets through our Community Partner Program.
Governance & Voting Power
Details: Your equity share grants you an equal vote in Board of Directors elections, strategic co-op decisions, and future store policy from day one.
Long-Term Storefront Benefits
Member-Owner Discounts: Exclusive deals and owner-only pricing on organic produce and daily essentials.
Patronage Dividends: When the store is open and profitable, profits are shared back with member-owners.
Local Food Sourcing Voice: Help vote on and suggest products, regional farmers, and local vendors for our store shelves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Standard store memberships (like big-box club cards) treat you like a customer paying an annual fee for access. At SoLA, you are a legal co-owner of the business. Your $200 isn't a fee: It’s a one-time equity investment that grants you permanent voting power, a direct voice in our store’s future, and patronage dividends when we're profitable. Members just shop; Owners shape the store.
What’s the real difference between being a Member and an Owner?
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You don't have to wait for our doors to open to start enjoying the benefits! As an early Owner, you immediately unlock:
Official SoLA Swag: A free SoLA t-shirt and Welcome Kit.
Community Partner Discounts: Exclusive perks and deals at local South LA Black-led and neighborhood partner businesses, health practices, and local markets.
Event & Workshop Access: Priority entry and discounts for our teaching kitchen workshops, chef demos, and pop-up events.
Democratic Voting Rights: Immediate voting power in board elections and co-op policy decisions.
The storefront isn't open yet on Crenshaw—what do I actually get right now?
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Traditional corporate grocery stores are financed by outside investors who extract profits from the community. Cooperatives are built from the ground up by neighbors. Your upfront $200 equity share helps us reach our 1,200-owner milestone, which unlocks matching capital grants and critical financing to build out the physical store on Crenshaw. Joining today ensures our doors open sooner!
Why should I buy an equity share now instead of waiting until the store opens?
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Is $200 a one-time payment, or will I be charged every year?
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It is strictly one-time for life per household. There are zero annual dues, zero hidden subscription fees, and no surprise charges. Once your $200 equity share is paid (in full or via our $25/mo installment plan), your household is covered permanently.
How does the $25/month payment plan work? Do I have to wait 8 months for my benefits?
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Not at all! When you choose the Bite-Sized Plan ($25/mo for 8 months), your full member-owner rights, voting power, t-shirt, and partner discounts kick in on Day 1 of your very first payment.
What if I move away from South LA in the future?
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Your equity share remains yours for life, no matter where you live! If you move and choose to leave the co-op, you can transfer your share to a friend or family member, or request an equity refund in accordance with co-op bylaws.
How does SoLA handle financial transparency and community accountability?
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As a registered California Consumer Cooperative, SoLA is legally owned and directed by its member-owners. We maintain strict financial oversight, conduct regular internal reviews, and share financial updates directly with our membership during quarterly and annual owner assemblies. Every dollar of equity and public grant funding is earmarked for site development, operational planning, and community activations. You don't have to take our word for it: As an owner, you hold the right to inspect our financial standing, vote on leadership, and shape our strategic direction.
What is SoLA’s relationship with local elected officials and city leadership?
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Bringing a multi-million dollar grocery co-op to Crenshaw requires navigating city zoning, transit planning, and public health grants. We maintain working relationships with local municipal leaders to educate city hall about South LA’s food infrastructure and advocate for investment in South LA’s food systems. SoLA is an independent, community-owned cooperative. Politicians do not sit on our governing board, nor do they hold financial equity in our business.