Steward-Ownership Basics
This chapter lays the essential foundation for understanding steward-ownership by first dissecting the prevailing notion of corporate ownership and how steward-ownership can reshape that relationship. We learn from Ben Cohen, co-founder of the well-known ice cream brand, why he wishes he had known about this concept before his company’s sale to Unilever. By identifying the historical and contemporary forerunners, we ground the theory in practice and dive deep into the core principles.
2.1 What is Ownership, What is Steward-Ownership?
A contribution by Armin Steuernagel
In this article, Armin Steuernagel dives into the philosophical connection of steward-ownership. He explores how ownership has been defined throughout history and the importance of resonance.
2.2 Steward-Ownership Principles
The core definition of steward-ownership
Steward-ownership is built on two core principles: self-determination and purpose orientation. This chapter explores how these principles are understood today.
2.3 Effects of Steward-Ownership
Evidence from Denmark and beyond
This article explores the scientific research around steward-ownership, especially through evidence from Denmark. It highlights the broad range of impacts of steward-ownership from resilience to satisfied employees.
2.4 Freeing Ben & Jerry’s
An interview with Ben Cohen
In this inspirational interview Ben Cohen, co-founder of Ben and Jerry's reflects on the role of businesses in society and how to build a company structure that can uphold its social purpose: an increasingly big challenge in Ben & Jerry's current ownership structure.
2.5 The Rise of Steward-Owned Companies
A timeline
Ready to see how the steward-ownership ecosystem evolved? This timeline shows a visual overview starting in 1827 until today.
2.6 Steward-Ownership Explained Visually
Through a movie and a cartoon
Explore steward-ownership through a different lens: Watch our video or read the cartoon about what steward-ownership is and how it works.
2.7 Freedom of Choice
The beauty of building what you want
In this interview, our co-founder Adrian shares about what steward-ownership has to do with freedom and what it means to him personally.