Cooperatives comprise an important part of the American agricultural system. Key factors important to the success of agricultural marketing cooperatives were identified and statistically analyzed using data collected from fifty-two cooperatives. The research quantified the effects of several independent variables on the probability of success. These variables were: sufficient equity before start up, maintaining an adequate business volume, keeping and distributing accurate financial records, importance of previous cooperatives experience and continued management training for both the board and manager, marketing agreements. Based on this research and the comprehensive literature review, marketing cooperatives can increase their chances of success by adhering to the recommendations set forth in this study.