For over 180 years, Co-op has championed the belief that business should be a force for good. Rooted in values of community and co-operation, this purpose came to life in 2025 through Co-op Live, a partnership that redefined cultural sponsorship. More than a name on a venue, Co-op Live shows how commerce and conscience can coexist, using entertainment as a platform for positive change.
Co-op Live commits £1 million annually to the Co-op Foundation, supporting initiatives like the Young Gamechangers Fund, a £4.5 million programme empowering young people aged 10–25 to lead projects that build safer, more inclusive, and sustainable communities. Designed and governed by a diverse youth steering group, the fund shifts power to those it serves. Projects like Journey to Adulthood in Lewisham, FungALL’s sustainable mushroom farm in Manchester, and Allyship workshops in Rochdale illustrate its reach, from care-experienced youth to gender equity.
The partnership also extends access through “Dreamseats,” offering free tickets and travel support to Co-op-funded communities, ensuring the arena is truly for everyone.
To date, 98 Young Changemakers across the UK have received up to £20k each, delivering measurable community impact. Beyond numbers, Co-op Live has strengthened trust, relevance, and purpose-led brand identity, positioning Co-op as a leader in ethical business at a time when others retreat from responsibility.
Through Co-op Live, Co-op has transformed sponsorship into social action, proving that when business leads with values, everyone benefits.
