Community groups invited to apply to Co-op's Local Community Fund for share of £5m fund

Co-op opens applications for £5 Million Local Community Fund

Local charities and grassroots organisations across the UK are now invited to apply for a share of Co-op’s £5 million Local Community Fund, as the retailer launches a new round of grants aimed at addressing social challenges and supporting community development.

Established in 2016, the Local Community Fund has, to date, supported nearly 39,000 projects nationwide—thanks to contributions from Co-op’s members. The latest round of funding reaffirms the organisation’s ongoing commitment to strengthening local communities and investing in initiatives that deliver meaningful, long-term impact.

This year, Co-op is prioritising projects that align with its core focus areas: improving access to food, supporting mental wellbeing, creating opportunities for young people, fostering community connections, and promoting environmental sustainability.

“It’s always exciting to begin the search for local causes to support through a new round of funding,” said David Luckin, Head of Community Partnerships, Funding and Impact at Co-op. “Our members have made it clear they want us to tackle the real issues affecting their communities. We recognise the challenges people are facing, and through this fund, we’re committed to making a tangible difference—helping people and places to thrive.”

Applications are open until Sunday, 6 July 2025. Full details, including eligibility criteria and application guidance, are available at: (https://coop.co.uk/causes).

With a heritage spanning more than 180 years, Co-op remains one of the world’s largest consumer-owned co-operatives. Its 6.5 million members not only collectively own the business but also influence its direction—supporting causes that matter most to them through the Co-op membership app.