First established in 1998, the (ae) Quality Guarantee Mark is designed to encourage economic activities based on an associative approach to economic life. With its 4 Steps and 4 Criteria, it highlights the main characteristics of an associative approach to business.

FOUR STEPS

1: Introduction to Associative Economics

An introduction to associative economics, it provides an overview of the place of associative economics in history and an orientation to the purpose of the Mark and the Rules governing its use.

2: Preparing for the AE Mark

Step 2 is designed to sharpen the skills and understanding needed to become a user of the Mark. Using project or actual information provided by the participants, it covers the aptness of legal forms, the philosophy, history and techniques of bookkeeping, and practical experience of 'The Meeting'. 

3: Committing to use the AE Mark

Having decided to become a user, this stage has two aspects. Firstly, making any necessary changes to the capitalisation, structure, management, and accounting of one's activity. Secondly, undertaking to meet with at least two other users or would-be users of the Mark for at least one year.

4: Certification 

The final Step entails submitting the completed 'Yearly Certification Request' form. This is a process of self-certification. It is self-policing and does not invoke external authorisation or regulation. Organisations that have completed Steps 1-3 and that fulfil the 4 Criteria (see below) announce their eligibility and request certification.

FOUR CRITERIA

The four steps are designed to enable an activity to fulfil the following four Criteria:

1: Competence 

Human beings, not market forces, as the true agents of economic development. 

2: Structure 

The importance of appropriate legal, financial, and management frameworks. 

3: Accounting

Transparent and open bookkeeping as a common language and the key to responsible change.

4: Meeting

Using the medium of money-as-accounting to work associatively rather than competitively.

• For more details, visit ae-mark.com