Applications are now open to a fund that could allow hundreds of charities to access millions of pounds in funding.
The Co-op said it was looking for charities to apply for the next round of its Local Community Fund. The retailer said its members had raised more than £70m for 21,000 local projects across the UK since 2016.
When its members buy selected Co-op branded products and services, 2p for every pound spent is shared equally between the selected voluntary sector recipients.
This includes a new Community Partnerships Fund, which is intended to support communities through national charities and organisations.
The Co-op is encouraging applications from projects that support access to food, help improve mental wellbeing or provide opportunities for young people.
Rebecca Birkbeck, director of community and shared value at the Co-op, said: “Our Local Community Fund and support from our members has been a lifeline throughout the pandemic, and we want even more local groups to take advantage of this opportunity.
“Members are encouraged to select a cause each round, allowing them to support grassroots causes that they really care about.
“This year, when a group applies for the Local Community Fund, we will also connect them to our online community centre, where they can come together and benefit from help and support from like-minded people and causes.”
Applications close on 30 May.