ACVO Opportunities

Funding

Community Grants

Funding available: various

Applications close: 01/12/2026

About this fund

Every year, we’re proud to support over 1,000 local charities, groups, and good causes with funding that makes a real difference. Whether you need vouchers for raffle prizes, a grant to boost your project, up to £5,000 for something bigger, or funding to plant fruit trees and shrubs, we’ve got funding options to suit your needs. Explore the opportunities below and see how we can support your community.

Community Grants

We offer up to £500 to support clubs, charities, and community groups in those areas where our stores operate.

These funds may be used for purchasing equipment, organising events, or supporting fundraising efforts.

Member’s Choice Award

Members accumulate votes through in-store purchases, which they can then use to support community projects. There are three funding rounds held each year.

  • Members select one group from six shortlisted candidates (with three options in English stores).
  • Members request their votes are allocated to their chosen group at a manned till in store.
  • The top group receives £5,000, while the remaining groups are awarded £1,000 each.
  • In Scotland, the most popular group can pitch at the AGM for an additional £5,000.

Community Orchard

Our Community Orchard initiative supports close to 200 communities throughout Scotland and northern England. Local groups are eligible to apply for up to £200 to plant fruit trees and shrubs near our stores—promoting physical activity, enhancing green spaces, and fostering community connections.

These orchards provide chances for volunteering, education, wildlife habitats, and fresh fruit. Hundreds of trees have already been planted, and participants can join our Facebook community to exchange advice and experiences.

Looking for support with funding?

Identifying funding opportunities and writing grant applications can seem overwhelming, especially when the future sustainability of your group is dependent on gaining funding support. 

Our supportive Funding Officer, Claire Shaw, can help your organisation with every step of the funding application process, from carrying out funding searches to proofreading your application.

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Community Grants

Scotmid Co-op

Funding available: various

Applications close: 01/12/2026

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