Short answer
A CV (Coöperatieve Vennootschap / SC) is a company in which members cooperate around a common goal. Think of neighbours buying solar panels together (energy cooperative) or farmers selling their produce jointly (food cooperative). Every member has an equal say, regardless of how much money they contribute.
Advantages
Democratic governance
One person, one vote, regardless of contribution
Free entry and exit
New partners join by purchasing shares (board decision). Leaving is done by having the CV buy back your shares. No notary needed, no amendment to the articles of association. With a BV, you need to find a buyer and other shareholders often have a right of approval.
Limited liability
Partners only risk their contribution
Social accreditation
A CV can be accredited as a "social enterprise" by the government. This gives access to specific subsidies, public contracts and tax benefits that other legal forms do not receive.
Strong engagement
Members/clients become co-owners
Dividends possible
A CV may distribute profits to partners, but dividends are legally capped at 6% of the contribution. The remainder of the profit must flow back to the cooperative objective.
Disadvantages
At least three founders
You need two other people to get started
Genuine cooperative spirit required
The law requires that you genuinely pursue the cooperative philosophy
Notary required
For incorporation and amendments to the articles of association
Shared control
Every partner has an equal say, regardless of contribution
Governance obligations
General assembly, governing body, bookkeeping
When to choose?
- You want to set up an energy cooperative, food cooperative or sharing platform
- You want to make clients or employees co-owners
- Democratic decision-making is important for your project
- You want to be accredited as a social enterprise
When not?
- You want to keep control alone or with one other person: choose a BV
- You want to attract investors who expect more voting rights
- Your project is not genuinely cooperative in nature
3. Not sure?
Most entrepreneurs hesitate between a few legal forms. Here are the most common comparisons.
The BV is more flexible and easier to set up (one person is sufficient). The CV is intended for genuine cooperatives with equal decision-making power. Only choose a CV if the cooperative model is essential for your project.
Both are forms of collaboration, but a CV may distribute profits (limited) and a VZW may not. Choose a VZW for purely non-profit purposes, a CV if you also want to financially reward members.
How many cooperative companies are there in Belgium?
View the exact figures, top cities, popular sectors and age distribution.
View the statistics →4. Frequently asked questions
What is a CV in Belgium?
A CV (Coöperatieve Vennootschap / SC) is a company with limited liability, based on the cooperative principle. Every partner has an equal say and partners can easily join and leave.
How many founders do you need for a CV?
At least three founders. This is more than for a BV (one founder) or VZW (two founders).
What is the difference between a CV and a BV?
The CV is based on "one person, one vote" and partners can freely enter and exit. With a BV, you determine the voting rights yourself and share transfers are more restricted.