City of London businesses are gearing up for City Giving Day 2026, an annual event scheduled for 23 September that highlights corporate social responsibility and community engagement. Organised by The Lord Mayor's Appeal in partnership with City AM, the day provides a platform for companies of all sizes to demonstrate their commitment to philanthropy, volunteering, and community partnerships. This year's event seeks to build on its growing success, showcasing how businesses can be a powerful force for positive change within society.
The initiative aims to inspire employees through shared experiences, with a range of collaborative events planned. These include the return of The Long Long Lunch, bringing together City restaurants for a dining experience that celebrates hospitality and community, and 'Voices for Giving', uniting City choirs. A new addition for 2026 allows individuals to volunteer directly in the delivery of City Giving Day itself, contributing to the behind-the-scenes effort of this significant corporate giving celebration.
Innovation remains a key feature, with the launch of the CPR World Record Relay Challenge, in partnership with Central London Alliance. This ambitious initiative will attempt to train thousands of people in lifesaving CPR over 48 hours. Additionally, the 'Tour de City' static Wattbike challenge will see organisations compete for distance while raising funds for charitable causes, adding a competitive element to the day's philanthropic efforts.
Since its inception in 2015, City Giving Day has evolved into one of the largest corporate giving movements in the UK, raising over £1.28 million for The Lord Mayor's Appeal. From 2026, the programme is set to expand its reach beyond London, aiming to inspire even more businesses across the country. This expansion underscores a collective message that the City, and increasingly the wider UK business community, is committed to social impact.
Ultimately, supporting City Giving Day is presented as an investment in a stronger future for London and its communities. The Lord Mayor's Appeal strives to create a 'Better City for All' by fostering partnerships and organising fundraising events that create opportunities for people to thrive. In an era where businesses are increasingly judged not just on financial performance but also on their societal impact, City Giving Day offers a tangible and visible means for organisations to make a meaningful difference and contribute to lasting change.