Flexible Finance Fund Launches £4m Package for English Charities
A £4m fund has launched to offer a blend of loans and grants to global majority led charities and social enterprises in England, according to a report by Charity Times. The initiative aims to help organisations access the finance they need to strengthen resilience and expand community services. Three distinct organizations are spearheading the rollout: Social Investment Business (SiB), The Ubele Initiative, and Create Equity. Meanwhile, grant funding is being provided by Access – The Foundation for Social Investment.
Structure of Loans and Grants Available
Through the Flexible Finance Fund, eligible organizations can access loans ranging between £50,000 and £1.5m. These loans are paired with grants worth between 50% and 100% of the loan value, with the grant portion capped at £200,000. This hybrid model attempts to bridge gaps that standard funding streams leave open for smaller or historically excluded community groups. SiB director of investments Rob Benfield stated that the program is designed to address historical investment barriers by combining funding types to better meet organizational needs.
Targeting Black and Racially Minoritised-Led Organizations
The funding specifically focuses on Black and racially minoritised-led organisations operating across England. Interim chief executive Neil Berry of the Foundation for Social Investment noted that combining flexible investment with tailored support helps these groups access appropriate finance, build long-term resilience, and continue delivering vital community impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for the Flexible Finance Fund?
Global majority led charities and social enterprises operating in England, specifically focusing on Black and racially minoritised-led organisations, are eligible to apply for the fund.
What are the financial limits for the funding package?
Loans are available between £50,000 and £1.5m, accompanied by grants worth 50% to 100% of the loan value up to a strict cap of £200,000.
Which organizations are launching the fund?
The fund is launched by Social Investment Business (SiB), The Ubele Initiative, and Create Equity, with grant funding supplied by Access – The Foundation for Social Investment.
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