Steward-ownership : A short guidebook to legal frameworks

This document discusses the case study of Organic Growers Supply (OGC), which transitioned from an employee stock ownership plan to a perpetual purpose trust (PPT) under Delaware trust law. The PPT, called the Sustainable Food and Agriculture PPT, will eventually own 100% of OGC shares and ensure that the company remains purpose-driven and independent while allowing for responsible exit of owners and employees. OGC created a governance and financial structure based on shared governance and shared upside among its stakeholders, including farmers, employees, customers, investors, and the wider community. The document also provides additional tools and models for steward-ownership structures, such as foundations, non-profit associations, and cooperatives, and financing and alternative investment instruments.