The role of social capital in agricultural production cooperatives in Khuzestan province on financial performance

The present study examined the role of social capital on financial performance of farming cooperatives in Khouzestan province. The method of research was descriptive- correlative. The population consisted of 3273 members of farming cooperatives. Based on Cochran formula, 213 persons were selected. The survey was conducted using a questionnaire. Content validity of the questionnaire was determined using a panel of experts. After applying the necessary corrections and conducting the pilot test, Cronbach's coefficient alpha was determined (alpha=79%). Data analysis was performed by using the SPSS19. The results showed that there was a significant relationship between experience, member's number, social trust and social cohesion and financial performance at the 99% level. Also the results showed that there was a significant relationshop bertween social awareness, social participation, and social capital and financial performance at the 95% level. Results of regression analysis also showed that social trust, social cohesion, social participation, and social awareness explain 74.8% of the variance of dependent variable.