Each year, the Co-op offers grants to supports projects in Co-op members’ communities that provide access to opportunities and resources for people to thrive.
The Local Community Fund is seeking applications for a new round of funding, which starts in October 2026.
The funding is for projects that help people to thrive in one of the following ways:
- Enable people to access food
- Create opportunities for young people
- Improve people’s mental wellbeing
- Promote community cohesion
- Build sustainable futures
The funder is also keen to support projects that promote and celebrate diversity and inclusion.
There is a total of £3.5 million for Co-op communities across the UK.
Successful groups will receive a minimum of £500 to support their projects.
Projects must take place or still be running after November 2027.
To apply, groups must:
- Be registered or based in the UK or Isle of Man
- Have their own bank account
- Deliver activity in their local community
- Be not-for-profit
- Provide a Co-op membership number for one of the people making the application (non-members can join online or via the Co-op App).
Successful groups will be part of the Local Community Fund for 12 months from 18 October 2026. Their local cause will receive an initial payment in Spring 2027, with remaining funds being paid in November 2027.
The deadline for applications is 24 June 2026 (midnight).