How it Works
An explanation of the initiative
What Are We Building?
The Toronto Multiplex Development Co-operative (TMDC) is building a scalable system for creating community-owned, resident-governed housing. This housing takes the form of small, energy-efficient multiplexes that are affordable because they are non-profit, non-speculative, and operated by the people who live in them.
The initiative isn’t just about building housing—it’s about building a system that communities can operate, sustain, and grow together.
A System of Co-ops
The TMDC model is built around a network of co-operatives, each playing a distinct role in the development and ongoing management of housing. These co-ops are designed to work together in a modular, scalable way.
The Three Core Co-ops
1. Development Co-op
Where the process begins
- What it does: Identifies land, purchases properties, commissions designs, and oversees construction.
- Who it serves: Future residents—people who join the waitlist and provide early-stage support.
- Why it matters: It ensures the development process is driven by community need, not profit.
Additional responsibilities:
- Onboards prospective members through interviews and education
- Manages initial member loans and escrow funds
2. Financing Co-op
Ethical, community-backed financing
- What it does: Provides access to capital through the sale of community bonds and the issuance of mortgages.
- Who it serves: Operating co-ops (see below) that manage each housing site.
- Why it matters: It replaces for-profit banks with a mission-aligned, transparent financial partner.
Learn more about the financial model and instruments on the Financing page.
3. Operating Co-op (Housing Co-op)
Living together, running it together
- What it does: Maintains and governs the co-op housing building after it's completed.
- Who it serves: Residents living in the building.
- Why it matters: It gives each household real decision-making power over their housing conditions, costs, and community culture.
Each operating co-op is responsible for:
- Managing operations and maintenance
- Hosting member meetings and electing a board
- Setting rent levels based on real costs (not market speculation)
Why This Works
This cooperative structure is designed to be:
- Participatory – members are actively involved in decisions at every stage
- Modular – new buildings and co-ops can be added over time
- Transparent – every dollar and decision is member-visible
- Resilient – the system distributes responsibility and avoids central bottlenecks
Together, these co-ops create a community-controlled pipeline for ongoing housing development that prioritizes stability, equity, and long-term sustainability.