Community Interest Company (CIC)
The most common social enterprise structure in the UK is the Community Interest Company (CIC). Designed specifically for social ventures, it blends commercial business practices with a legally binding "asset lock" that ensures profits are reinvested into the community
If you are interested in setting up a CIC you can follow our instructions on forming a CIC and if you need some support from CVS, contact us.
Community Interest Companies in the UK can access funding by demonstrating a clear social mission, adhering to an immutable asset lock, and ensuring activities benefit the public, not private individuals. Funders have varying policies and criteria, so it is the responsibility of the CIC to understand if they are fit. CVS have created CIC and grant funding guidance to help you get started
If you are also wondering if a Charitable Incorporated Organisation may be right for you, check out our quick comparison guide to CICs and CIOs.