Co-op has opened applications for its Local Community Fund, which sponsors charities and community groups that make a difference.

The c-store retailer has a £3.5m fund dedicated to improving local communities across towns, villages and cities in the UK.

The convenience retailer aims to support projects which help communities access food, improve mental wellbeing, create opportunities for young people and build sustainable futures.

Head of social value and community engagement at Co-op, David Luckin, said: “Beginning the search for new local causes to take part in a fresh round of funding is always exciting; our members have told us that they want Co-op to focus on the real issues affecting people’s lives.

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“Co-operation and people working together can be very powerful, and our funding enables local causes to deliver projects that focus on issues that matter most locally.

“We know that things can be increasingly challenging for communities, and through this funding we can help to make a real difference – helping people and communities thrive.”

Co-op’s programme has a presence in every UK postal area, and the local community fund has assisted 40,000 causes since its launch. The applications are open from now until 24 June 2026.