CCA promotes the important role that co-operatives play in strengthening Canada's economy, revitalizing communities and meeting social needs. The federal government is therefore a major focus for CCA's efforts to advocate for legislation and policies that will benefit Canadian co-ops and credit unions, as well as programs supporting the development of new co-operatives across the country.

CCA develops policy positions on the key issues of the day that affect co-ops and their members. It monitors federal government activities and legislation and meets regularly with parliamentarians and government officials in an effort to ensure that co-operative values and the needs of co-ops and their members are included in policy and programs,.  CCA also prepares submissions and policy analyses, appears before Parliamentary committees and organizes events such as our annual Parliamentary Reception aimed at keeping decision-makers informed about and engaged in issues of interest to the co-operative sector.

CCA provides support and advice to help its members deal with federal policy issues and works in partnership with other national organizations within and outside the co-op sector to present a united front and achieve common goals.

CCA's efforts in this area are led by the Government Affairs and Public Policy (GAPP) Unit, consisting of senior staff members with years of experience in government relations as well as policy development and analysis.  GAPP's work is complemented by CCA Board members and staff throughout the organization, who participate in CCA lobby days and other government affairs activities.  Our advocacy efforts are supported and enhanced by CCA members and grass-roots co-ops across the country.