York Racecourse seek to find new local charity partners: Closing date Friday 27 February

York Racecourse is inviting applications from local charities and community groups to  join the York Racecourse Local Community Partnership Scheme. This is a renewed opportunity for small York-based organisations to benefit from practical support, fundraising opportunities and a £1,000 donation.

This recent initiative sees the Racecourse team adopting a focused approach to their local community charities and community groups. Highlights of this past year included job fairs held in partnership with Collective Sharehouse York and food bank collections.

Now in its second year, the Local Community Partnership Scheme provides more than just financial support. Each selected partner will receive:

• A one-off donation of £1,000
• A bucket collection at the Racecourse during the season
• Discounted venue hire for a fundraising event
• Practical advice from the Racecourse team
• A visit from Remy, the Racecourse’s equine ambassador

This programme complements York Racecourse’s wider charitable support, which includes ongoing work with Clifton Green Primary School and annual initiatives such as the Sky Bet Ebor Community Sweepstake. The Racecourse is also proud to continue its long-standing relationship with Macmillan Cancer Support, hosting the 55th Macmillan Charity Raceday on 13 June 2026, having already raised over £11.5 million.

Phil Atkinson, who leads on community projects at York Racecourse, said:

“York Racecourse is proud to have an extensive charity and local community programme which has generated vital funds for Macmillan, our racing charitable partners and our local community over many years. We are delighted to extend this programme for 2026 and look forward to selecting York Racecourse Local Community Partners who we can support in a more focused and targeted way during the year ahead. Hopefully we have the ability to make a big difference to these organisations over a year.”

Applications are open now and close on Friday 27 February 2026.