Community food projects invited to apply for Cook for Change programme

If you run a food or cooking project in your community, you could take part in a new programme designed to help your idea grow and reach more people.

Published: 11/03/2026

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Applications are now open for Cook for Change, a seven-month programme that supports community groups to develop new ways to bring in income and become more financially sustainable.

There are 20 places available for people running local food and cooking initiatives.

Those who make it onto the programme will take part in a three-day bootcamp, receive pitch training with Google, and get one-to-one support from industry experts to help develop a business plan.

The project is run by Cook for Good; a social enterprise based on Peabody’s Priory Green Estate in Islington that’s tackling food insecurity, social isolation and barriers to work.  

Apply now

Building on last year’s success

The first Cook for Change programme took place last year and supported people running a range of community food projects. 

These included community kitchens, after-school clubs and cooking classes for parents. Each one focused on bringing people together through food.

The ten people who completed the full programme all created a business plan and said they felt more confident running their projects. Several also developed new products and services, created jobs in their communities by taking on staff and expanded the number of people they support.

One participant said: “The bootcamp helped me find real clarity about my next steps and how to grow my enterprise. It was the perfect balance of inspiration and practical advice.” 

We support Cook for Change, alongside Wates Family Enterprise Trust, Fusion 21 Foundation, Compass Foundation and Restaurant Associates. Three more housing associations – L&Q, Clarion Housing Group and Notting Hill Genesis – are also supporting the new round, helping it reach even more neighbourhoods.   

How to apply and find out more

The application deadline is Friday 20 March 2026.

Check if you're eligible and apply

View the video report from last year’s programme