Co-Operative Community Investment Foundation

The Co-operative Community Investment Foundation, known as the Co-op Foundation, is the charitable arm of the Co-operative Group, established in 2002 to foster fairer, more co-operative communities across the UK. Governed by Co-op representatives and charity experts, its mission emphasizes co-operation, equity, and empowerment, particularly for marginalized groups. It prioritizes co-design with beneficiaries—especially young people and those with lived experience—in grantmaking, promoting participatory approaches, systemic change, and long-term partnerships. Core values include fairness, trust, flexible funding (as an IVAR pledge signatory), and ethical investments aligned with UN Principles for Responsible Investment.

The Foundation funds initiatives tackling social inequality, youth loneliness, justice system impacts, mental health, and community resilience, with a strong focus on youth-led projects serving young marginalized groups. Key programs include the Future Communities Fund for small organizations supporting justice-experienced youth, and the Local Community Fund for grassroots community benefits. It supports unrestricted core costs, project delivery, and capacity building, backing youth organizations, charities like Unlock, and local services nationwide.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities or community groups with incomes up to £250,000, operating exclusively in the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland), and holding a Co-op membership for some funds. They require at least two unrelated trustees and evidence of experience. Grants range from £1,000–£30,000 (up to £150,000 multi-year for Future Communities; £1,000–£6,000 for Local). Applications occur via specific online rounds: two-stage EOI-to-full for Future Communities (next deadline 12 June 2025); online form for Local (6 July 2025). No rolling or unsolicited outside rounds; no religious restrictions, capital-only, or emergency grants. It stands out for devolving power to communities, prioritizing youth voice, and flexible, relational funding over rigid metrics.