Deadline: 19-Jan-2026
Somerset Community Foundation has launched its Somerset Social Investment Programme to help charities and social enterprises scale up their trading income while maintaining sustainability.
The programme offers a blend of loan and grant funding between £10,000 and £40,000 to support capital investments, working capital or bridging finances.
The finance is “blended,” which means part of the funding is a repayable loan (with fixed interest) and part is a grant that does not need repaying. The loan component is unsecured, ensuring that applicants don’t risk losing organisational assets. The grant portion must be used specifically for the investment idea rather than general running costs.
Applicants must be incorporated organisations, have already filed at least one set of annual accounts and have an income that is at least double the amount requested. They must also show a robust business case demonstrating how the investment will help grow their trading model, presenting financial forecasts, market analysis and an impact statement.
Interest on the loan is fixed (typically 6%), and repayment is structured over five years, often with interest-only in the first year. An administrative fee applies. Repayments are set up via Direct Debit and late or missed payments can incur penalties. The programme is fairly rigorous in its monitoring through quarterly reports on both financial standing and social impact.
For organisations looking to scale trading activity and generate income alongside impact, the Somerset Social Investment Programme offers significant opportunity. It is especially suited to those ready to grow, with solid accounts, strong governance and a clear plan for trading and social benefit.
For more information, visit Somerset Community Foundation.