What we do

We back community business from the ground up.

Community businesses across England are showing what’s possible. They are turning empty buildings into thriving hubs, creating local wealth and delivering services built on what people need.

They offer hope to the many communities who still face hollowed-out high streets, a sense of powerlessness and disillusionment, and public services under strain, where traditional approaches have not always delivered lasting change. What is missing isn’t energy or innovation, it is the conditions that enable community business to thrive.

We’re focused on closing that gap through our three connected priorities.

Our areas of focus

shop front with a sign outside and person walking in

Growing community-led local economies

The economy is not delivering for all. Income inequality, wealth inequality, and poverty are widespread and growing. Community businesses put economic power directly into the hands of communities. They are central to thriving local and regional economies as they create, own, share and reinvest wealth locally. We are working to make community business a common-sense approach to economic development.

Learn more

Two people in bright color jumpsuits that say 'Community Builders' talk at the Nudge Union Street block party.

Creating community-powered places and spaces

The places and spaces which enable communities to come together are disappearing. Community business brings people closer together and gives communities a real say in how their neighbourhoods, high streets and shared assets are run. We work alongside community businesses and other partners to help grow what works to revive our local spaces and reconnect our communities.

Learn more

Building community-centred public services

Many public services – from homelessness to mental health and employment support – continue to be delivered without the involvement of those they are there to support. Real prevention and resilience start when communities are involved and have the power to lead. Community businesses are run by, and directly accountable to, local communities. We are testing and growing community-led models that work alongside public sector partners, showing how trust, local relationships and innovation can improve outcomes for everyone.

Learn more

Our projects

We do, test and learn what works to make community businesses thrive. We set up and partner on projects and pilots that demonstrate how to build stronger communities, and us the learning to advocate to change.

Explore some of our current and past projects