Big Issue Invest is launching a Social Enterprise Venture Fund. This will provide risk capital for social enterprises that have the capacity for scale, profitability and significant social impact.

We will typically be looking to finance the growth of existing social enterprises, but will also consider financing early stage businesses that have a robust business model and a strong management team.

This fund will offer both financial and social returns to investors and we are partnering with a number of pioneering venture philanthropy funders who want to move away from 'efficient' giving towards sustainable social investment.

We will provide more than just capital to the social enterprises we invest in. We seek to be actively involved as a strategic partner, typically through Board representation rather than involvement in the day-to-day operations of the business.

Ron Sheldon, Managing Director of Advent International London, will chair the investment board and take an active part in the fund.

Big Issue Invest's social venture investments will be in the range of £50,000 to £500,000, with the possibility of additional future investment depending on the success of the business.

Investment may be used for a variety of purposes, for example, working capital, asset purchase or acquisitions of other businesses.

Our Social Enterprise Venture Fund model is not based on taking large equity stakes in businesses with a 3-5 year exit plan. We take a longer term view on investments and look to generate returns which does not jeopardise the social objectives of the business.

If you are an entrepreneurial social enterprise that could use risk capital to generate long term sustainable returns or fund strategic acquisitions, please contact us.