Evidence and ideas

Evidence and ideas

We know community business works to create thriving places.

At Power to Change, we are curious and rigorous; we do, test and learn. This means carrying out – and partnering with others on – high quality, creative research. We conduct analysis of the biggest challenges we face as a country, from distrust in politics to the decline of our high streets and explore the role community business can play in overcoming these challenges.

We conduct leading research on the community business sector, such as through our landmark Community Business Market report (link to latest version). We also learn, in-real-time, alongside people, communities and community businesses. Through our demonstrator projects, we test new ideas (such as Community Improvement Districts) and work with partners to act on the conclusions of this action research.

Central to our approach is a belief that research should have a life and impact beyond the publication of reports.

Our evidence and ideas

person outside putting soil into a pot

Reports

Our research and reports help us understand what conditions help community businesses to thrive.

a man in a hat is speaking to anoher person outside

Our thinking

We’re constantly listening to and learning about communities. Read our latest thinking here

Waiter with pink hair carries plates of food from the kitchen at the Anstice's cafe.

Stories

Stories of the amazing community businesses making an impact in their local area.

A group of people learn to cycle with Cycle for Life.

Resources

Resources and guides for community businesses, including help from our partners.

Building on our evidence base

Our evidence base shows that community business works to create thriving places. It helps local people take ownership of spaces that matter to them. They deliver services that communities need.

Previous research conducted by our Research Institute between 2015-2021, including all reports and datasets, is available on the Institute for Community Studies Repository.