All group-equity cooperatives are encouraged to support NASCO Development's efforts through active membership in the Campus Cooperative Development Corporation (CCDC.) Investing Members are those that pay membership dues based on a "development tax" or $1.85 per member per month on the membership of the member cooperative. The total contribution from a cooperative depends on the size of the cooperative's membership. The tax was made affordable so that all cooperatives might participate in the development effort. Those member making a significant contribution are given a seat on the Board of Directors. Non co-ops and other organizations may also become donors to NASCO Development Services. Once again, those making a "significant" contribution are granted a seat on the Board of Directors.
Investing members often support cooperative development through assistance to particular projects in a variety of ways depending on project needs. Participating cooperatives decide on a case by case basis if they are able to assist with the needs of a project. In this way participating cooperatives are only required to do what they may be organizationally or financially able to at a particular time. Methods of assistance may include:
- Acting as a mentor for a nearby project, providing operational guidance on such items as governance structures, work schedules, financial structures and officer trainings.
- Provide technical expertise on such items as new construction supervision, code requirements, financing sources etc...
- Guarantee loans to assist in financing a new project for purchase or construction.
- Approve loans for new start-ups for such items as furniture, washers and dryers, solar panels, etc.