Fund for International Co-operative Development
The Fund for International Co-operative Development (FICD), the first of its kind, launched on the 21st December 2024 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.
Marking a Historic Moment
Rochdale’s historic Toad Lane – the birthplace of the co-operative movement – celebrated 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.
A Timely Launch
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.
Fund Focus Areas
The fund will focus on three key areas:
- Crisis Response: Delivering immediate humanitarian assistance to areas affected by conflict and natural disasters.
- Medium-Term Rebuilding: Strengthening and developing co-operatives in post-crisis recovery.
- Long-Term Mutual Aid: Promoting social justice by building resilient and inclusive economies through co-operatives.
Collaborative Development
The FICD has been developed through collaboration between leading UK co-operatives, including Co-op Group, The Midcounties Co-operative, Central Co-op, Lincolnshire Co-op, and Co-operatives UK. Initial development and funding have been supported by these organizations, with further expertise provided by the Co-operative College, Co-operative Heritage Trust, and Co-op News. The fund aspires to develop multi-million-pound partnerships in the coming years, supporting co-operatives in their vital role of driving sustainable and inclusive change worldwide.
Looking Ahead
The launch also marks the start of the UN 2025 International Year of Co-operatives, themed ‘Co-operatives Build a Better World,’ recognizing the vital role of co-operatives in creating resilient and inclusive global communities.
Get Involved
As we build our operations and membership throughout 2025, we’d love to hear from co-operatives and their members interested in financially contributing and getting involved. If that’s you, please contact Dr. Sarah Alldred, FICD Manager and Secretary, at sarah.alldred@fund.coop.