What is a business structured as a cooperative enterprise owned by two or more individuals termed?

A business structured as a cooperative enterprise owned by two or more individuals is referred to as a partnership. In this arrangement, each partner contributes to the business, whether through capital, skills, or labor, and they share in the profits and responsibilities according to the terms of their agreement. Partnerships allow individuals to combine their resources, expertise, and networks, making it an ideal structure for various business activities. The collaborative nature of partnerships often fosters a supportive environment where partners can leverage each other's strengths.

Other business structures exist, such as corporations, which are separate legal entities owned by shareholders and subject to different regulations, and sole proprietorships, where one individual operates a business independently without formal partnership agreements or shared ownership. Franchises differ as they involve one party allowing another to operate a business under their trademark and system. Each of these structures has distinct characteristics, but partnerships specifically emphasize shared ownership and cooperative operation among two or more individuals.