Social enterprise

The fund, which is supported by a guarantee scheme from the government-owned British Business Bank, will typically support small-scale community projects.

The government hopes its new Office for the Impact Economy will provide a hub to drive large-scale funding into social impact. We asked senior figures in the sector for their views on the move.

Holger Westphely tells Impact Investor that social enterprises should be supported in taking a longer-term view of their operations to make the sector more efficient.

The Better Futures Fund will work with impact investors to finance projects that improve children’s lives and opportunities across the country.

Retail social impact investments grew by €2bn in France in 2024, an increase of 7% on the previous year, according to the latest Social Impact Finance Barometer from FAIR and La Croix.

Impact Bridge has invested in Ecoalf, which is focused on advancing responsible textile innovation and circular design. Plus, Rival Foods raises €10m in a series B funding round to further scale production capacity | Start Foundation invests in Roetz Bikes.

The funding aims to deliver on the objectives set out in the Community Enterprise Growth Plan, targeting organisations addressing social problems in underserved places and communities.

The initiative aims to support green and circular economy enterprises across Colombia, Peru, and Brazil, generating jobs and also supporting local communities and Indigenous groups.

Small and medium-sized businesses who qualify for a loan will be able to take advantage of financing at lower interest rates, with reduced collateral requirements

The fund supports social enterprises and charities struggling for finance in a difficult economic climate, while also facing increased demand for their services.