Newcastle-based technology entrepreneur Ozan Demir is developing a new fintech venture designed to generate funding for charities through everyday spending.
Ozan, the founder of the upcoming Torch platform, said his experience of undergoing treatment for parathyroid cancer in 2024 strengthened his determination to use his technology background to support charitable organisations.
After recovering, he relocated to the North East rather than developing the business in London, citing the region’s strong community identity and culture of supporting local causes.
Ozan said: “Having cancer made me think about those who face hardship without money or support, and just how many patients and their families are supported every day by charitable organisations.
“With my technology background, I knew I had to do something to give back.
“I chose the North East because it has an enormous heart and a strong sense of community. It is the perfect place to begin building something that we hope can eventually be expanded across the UK.”
Torch is being developed as a payment platform through which everyday purchases could help generate funding for charitable causes.
The proposed system would allow users to support charities through purchases such as a morning coffee, bus journey or weekly shop, without charities being charged to participate.
Users would also be able to suggest smaller organisations and community groups for inclusion, with the aim of helping charities that may not have significant fundraising or marketing resources.
The venture is being developed at a challenging time for the charitable sector. The Charities Aid Foundation reported in March 2026 that the British public donated an estimated £14 billion during 2025, almost 10 per cent less than the previous year.
Its research also found that the proportion of people donating had fallen from 69 per cent in 2016 to 55 per cent in 2025.
Ozan added: “Even relatively small, everyday purchases have the potential to contribute to something positive.
“For local businesses, taking part could also provide a way to demonstrate their commitment to the communities in which they operate.”
Torch is currently preparing for launch, with people and charitable organisations being invited to register their interest through the company’s website.
