Long-distance train operator CrossCountry has announced that its annual Customer and Communities Improvement Fund, and its Biodiversity Improvement Projects fund, are now open for applications.

The two funds are being launched to support local projects that encourage sustainable growth and create a positive impact for local communities across the CrossCountry network.

A total of £100,000 has been made available for 2026 to support community projects that deliver clear and measurable social and environmental benefits. The fund consists of £60,000 for Customer and Community Projects, and £40,000 for Biodiversity Improvement Projects.

The funding window is open from Monday 22 June until Monday 17 July 2026.

Jessica Lockwood, Head of Sustainability at CrossCountry, said: “We’re delighted to launch the latest rounds of funding and look forward to seeing the inspiring applications from communities right across our network.

“We’re particularly keen to hear from organisations that are delivering projects aligned to our Sustainability Strategy, delivering lasting social value in the communities we serve. There’s more information on our website - if you have a project that could make a real difference, we encourage you to apply.”

Since 2024, the two funds combined have supported a plethora of initiatives across the UK, totalling £267,000 of local community support.

Andrew Fordham, Deputy CEO of refugee support charity Breaking Barriers, which received CCIF funding in 2025, said: “We’re proud to be working with partners who share our commitment to helping refugees build secure, independent futures.”

“Support through the CCIF project enables us to provide tailored employment, education and skills programmes that make a real difference to the lives of the people we work with”

CrossCountry's latest Social Value report was launched this April, a £184 million contribution to communities and the environment across the business.

James Therobot, Co-director of Cambridge-based Hip-Hop arts organisation SIN Cru, who were beneficiaries of last year’s Biodiversity Funding scheme, said: “Being part of the 2025 BIP funding cycle has been transformational for SIN Cru. The support enabled us to develop a new wayfinding nature trail linking our Definitely Real Build community garden to North Cambridge Station - a space that now connects creativity, community and the natural environment in a way we’d only imagined before.

We’re excited to see the 2026 BIP fund open up new possibilities for more organisations to make lasting, place based impact.”

Applications to the fund can be made through a simple online form. To find out more and to apply, visit:www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/customer-and-communities-improvement-fund

To find out more about CrossCountry's contribution to local communities, including the business' most recent Social Value report, visit: https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/community-hub/social-value