Proto-cooperation (Gr. Protos - First, Lat. Cooperatio - Cooperation)

Proto-cooperation (from the Greek "protos" - first and the Latin "cooperatio" - cooperation) is a way of interaction between two populations, in which each benefits from the presence of the other, but can exist without it. Such relationships can be between species in nature or between companies in business.

In nature, protocooperation occurs, for example, between flowers and their pollinators. The flower provides the pollinator with the pollen needed to fertilize other flowers, and the pollinator in turn transfers pollen to other flowers, helping them to fertilize. Both participants in this process benefit: the flower gets the opportunity to reproduce, and the pollinator gets food in the form of nectar, which is secreted by the flower.

In business, proto-cooperation can occur between two companies that are not competitors but interact with each other to obtain benefits. For example, a furniture manufacturer may partner with an upholstery fabric manufacturer to obtain raw materials at a better price, and the fabric manufacturer receives orders for its products.

Protocooperation is an important interaction mechanism that allows participants to benefit from cooperation. Such relationships can last a long time and be mutually beneficial for all participants. However, if one of the participants ceases to benefit, then the proto-cooperation may cease. Therefore, it is important to ensure that all participants in the proto-cooperation benefit and maintain these relationships for a long time.