Local organisations in the Isle of Man now have an exciting opportunity to secure funding through the Co-op Local Community Fund. This initiative is designed to support projects that foster Sustainable Futures for People and the Planet within Co-op members’ communities. Since its inception in 2016, the fund has supported nearly 40,000 local causes, and the upcoming funding round aims to continue this impactful tradition.
£5 Million Funding Available Across the UK and Isle of Man
The Co-op has announced a total of £5 million in funding for communities across the UK and the Isle of Man, starting in October 2024. Each community will have £6,000 available to be shared between three local causes, with each cause guaranteed a minimum of £1,000. This initiative will substantially boost local projects aiming to make a significant difference.
Eligibility Criteria and Application Details
Not-for-profit groups that are looking to deliver specific projects benefiting their local community are encouraged to apply. Only one application per group is accepted, and successful applicants will enter into a 12-month partnership with the Co-op, receiving their funds in November 2025.
Projects must support either People or Planet:
People:
- Supporting young people to fulfil their potential
- Helping older people feel connected
- Improving mental wellbeing
Planet:
- Tackling climate change
- Reducing waste and resource use
- Protecting nature
Application Requirements:
- The project must take place in the Isle of Man and be active post-November 2025.
- The applying group must be registered as a not-for-profit group, have its own bank account, and deliver local community activities.
- A Co-op membership number is required for the application process (non-members can join online or via the Co-op App).
Who Can Apply?
Eligible groups include:
- Churches or Chapels
- Co-operative Societies
- Community Benefit Societies
- Community Interest Companies
- Credit Unions
- Registered Charities in the UK or Isle of Man
- Social Enterprises
- Scout, Guide, or Woodcraft Folk groups
- Any other not-for-profit group
Projects ineligible for funding include those that support individuals, overseas projects, political or religious activities (except for community-beneficial projects led by religious groups), staff salaries and running costs, redistribution of funds, responsibilities of Local Authorities, or any project potentially harmful to the Co-op’s reputation.
Application Process
To apply, groups must provide:
- Charity number or registration details
- Governing documents proving not-for-profit status
- Group’s bank details and a recent bank statement
- Group and project description
- Basic information about the group’s activities and income
- A promotional photo (landscape)
- Contact details for two people, including a Co-op membership number
Applications must be submitted by midnight on 7 July 2024. Following the assessment over the summer, applicants will be informed of the outcome in October 2024. Successful projects will participate in the Local Community Fund from 20 October 2024 to 18 October 2025, with funds distributed in November 2025.
This is a tremendous opportunity for Isle of Man organisations to gain vital support for their projects. For more information and to apply, visit the Co-op Local Community Fund website.