Direct Local vs Category Design Academy

Direct Co-ops is a group-buying platform and marketplace for SMEs (small and medium-sized businesses) and co-ops, bringing together local independent businesses to leverage their group buying power, enabling them to achieve better prices on all their purchases. Our platform allows SMEs to enjoy the same buying power as the big chains and online retailers, stimulating the local communities and economies to level the playing field for our 'Mom and Pop' shops.

Welcome to the Category Pirates’ Category Design Academy, the first digital business education for entrepreneurs, executives, and creators who think differently. This training ground is for leaders who want to learn to apply category design business strategy and move from competing over old things to creating the future. You’ll have access to legendary courses that teach you practical and tactical category design principles. You'll be able to join live workshops to ask questions, get feedback, and learn from others. And you'll connect with a community of different thinkers who reject the status quo and create their own futures. It’s not a traditional education—it’s a transformative learning experience. Here’s what to expect: Category Design Curriculum: Every course and program within the Academy is unique, but all have foundations in category design strategy. In our intensive hands-on training program, you'll learn how to 10x your pricing, create a line of customers who are waiting to work with you, get advice on running a business, and much more. In our mini-courses, you'll get the training and tools you need to take your business to the next level. Actionable Exercises: Theory alone won't unlock the treasure troves of category design. You’ll practice what you learn in hands-on exercises that hone your skills and help you develop a deep understanding of the core concepts. Workshops & Events: Get invaluable feedback from live workshops with the Category Pirates These will help you navigate any challenges, ask questions specific to your business, and learn from others at all sizes and stages of business. Proven Frameworks: Learn the frameworks and strategies that Category Queen use to build successful companies. You’ll learn how to apply battle-tested methodologies that have reshaped industries and unleashed unprecedented growth. Pirate Crew Connections: Have you struggled to find other radically different thinkers? Here, you’ll be surrounded by like-minded innovators and leaders. You may very well meet your next co-founder, business partner, or client. In the Category Design Academy, you'll learn everything you need to implement category design into your business and life. But you won’t do it alone. You’ll take the journey with a crew who are responsible for holding each other accountable, sharing leads, and coaching each other up. You'll collaborate with other members, spar with seasoned category designers, and sharpen your skills through interactive challenges. And you'll achieve your full personal, professional, and financial autonomy as you perfect your craft. Before you enter, you should know—we don't settle for ordinary. We only train those who refuse to conform to the status quo. Our mission is to unleash your inner pirate, empowering you to take control and steer business decisions with unwavering confidence. So, our curriculum isn't for the faint-hearted. We dive deep into the principles of radical differentiation, driving exponential outcomes, and creating different futures. Are you ready to leave your mark on the business landscape? To change industries, redefine markets, and become a category design legend? It's time to begin training. Arrrrr!