From Rochdale Pioneers to Global Impact: Celebrating 180 Years of Co-operation with New Development Fund

·       The Fund for International Co-operative Development, the first of its kind, launches to support communities worldwide in rebuilding after crises and fostering peace.

·       Developed through collaboration between leading UK co-operatives, the fund reflects the power of co-operation to drive global change.

Rochdale’s historic Toad Lane – the birthplace of the co-operative movement – marked 180 years of co-operation on Saturday, 21 December, with the launch of the Fund for International  Co-operative Development (FICD). This new fund will provide financial support and expertise to co-operatives globally, helping communities rebuild after crises, foster peace, and create sustainable economies.

Timed just before Christmas, the launch underscores the true power of co-operation to foster resilience and peace. From responding to humanitarian crises to creating long-term, inclusive economies, the FICD reflects the principles of the Rochdale Pioneers and their legacy of working together to create opportunities for all.

Debbie Robinson, CEO of Central Co-op, said: “The creation of a Fund for International Co-operative Development represents an exciting opportunity to grow the Co-op economy on an international scale.

“Together, as co-operators, we can work to find co-operative solutions to global challenges. By supporting new co-operatives through Co-op to Co-op trade, the Fund will encourage economic participation,  building resilience in Co-ops and helping to address Food security challenges through greater access to safe and nutritious food.”

The fund will focus on three key areas:

1.      Crisis response: Delivering immediate humanitarian assistance to areas affected by conflict and natural disasters.

2.      Medium-term rebuilding: Strengthening and developing co-operatives in post-crisis recovery.

3.      Long-term mutual aid: Promoting social justice by building resilient and inclusive economies through Co-op to Co-op trade.

The Fund for International Co-operative Development has been developed through collaboration between leading UK co-operatives, including Co-op Group, Central Co-op, The Midcounties Co-operative, Lincolnshire Co-op, and Co-operatives UK. Convened by Co-operatives UK, the International Co-operative Working Group (ICWG) has played a pivotal role, bringing together expertise from across sectors, including retail, housing, and the worker co-op movement.

Dr Sarah Alldred, FICD Manager and Secretary, said: “This fund is gathering momentum fast,  with discussions already taking place with co-operatives and individuals across the UK and globally. Co-op organisations are invited to pledge support to the fund and become founder members. There will also be opportunities in 2025 for co-operatives to contribute, alongside ways for individuals to make micro-donations.”

For more information about the Fund, contact Dr Sarah Alldred, FICD Lead and Secretary: sarah.alldred@fund.coop