Co-op Local Community Fund Opens for Applications – Share of £3.5 Million Available

The Co-op Local Community Fund is now accepting applications from charities and community groups. Funding is available for projects supporting food access, young people, mental wellbeing, community cohesion and sustainability.

Community groups, charities and not-for-profit organisations across the UK now have the opportunity to apply for funding through the Co-op's annual Local Community Fund.

The fund, which will support projects from October 2026, aims to help communities thrive by investing in local organisations that are making a positive difference to people's lives.

With a total of £3.5 million available across Co-op communities, successful organisations will receive funding to support projects that tackle local challenges and strengthen communities.

What Projects Can Be Funded?

The Co-op is looking to support projects that help people thrive in one or more of the following ways:

• Enabling people to access food
• Creating opportunities for young people
• Improving mental wellbeing
• Promoting community cohesion
• Building sustainable futures

The fund is also particularly interested in supporting projects that celebrate and promote diversity, equality and inclusion.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to organisations that:

• Are registered or based in the UK or Isle of Man
• Are not-for-profit organisations
• Have their own bank account
• Deliver activities within their local community
• Can provide a Co-op membership number from one of the people making the application

Groups do not need to already be Co-op members, as membership can be obtained online or through the Co-op app before applying.

How Much Funding is Available?

There is no fixed grant amount for individual organisations. However, successful groups will receive a minimum award of £500, with final funding levels determined through the Co-op member fundraising model.

Projects must either start after October 2026 or continue operating beyond November 2027.

Successful organisations will become part of the Local Community Fund programme for a 12-month period from 18 October 2026. They will receive an initial payment in Spring 2027, followed by a final payment in November 2027.

Why This Matters for the VCSE Sector

This is one of the most accessible funding programmes available to grassroots organisations and community groups.

The fund may be particularly suitable for:

• Foodbanks and community food projects
• Youth clubs and youth development programmes
• Mental health and wellbeing initiatives
• Community centres and neighbourhood projects
• Environmental and sustainability activities
• Social inclusion projects
• Volunteer-led community organisations

Unlike many larger grant programmes, the Co-op Local Community Fund is designed to support smaller community-based projects that are delivering practical benefits at a local level.

Key Dates

Application Deadline: Midnight on 24 June 2026

Funding Programme Starts: 18 October 2026

Final Payment: November 2027

Find Out More and Apply
Applications and guidance are available through the Co-op Local Community Fund website