Social Investment

Trust for London is an independent charitable foundation tackling poverty and inequality in the capital. We are particularly interested in new and imaginative ways of addressing the root causes of London’s social problems, especially where it has the potential to influence and change policy, practice and public attitudes.

Social Investment: Trust for London made its first social investment in 2012, and since then we have invested £17m in charities and social enterprises helping to reduce poverty and inequality in London. Social investment is a valuable tool alongside our grant making to support organisations delivering social impact. Our social investments are typically in the form of loans or equity. Unlike grants, they are repaid with some interest, but we can be flexible about the size or type of investments we make and how much interest we charge. We want to support pioneering projects and social enterprises working in new ways to tackle issues around poverty in London.

Social Investment is for charities and social enterprises based in London that are looking to take on social investment to help them grow and become more sustainable.

We especially want to work with organisations that haven't typically had access to this type of funding, such as those led by or working with: -Women -Disabled people -Refugees -BME groups -LGBTQ groups

We will continue to consider investment in finance-focused social investment opportunities, typically managed funds or larger multi-investor initiatives. However, this is now less of a priority for us, and we will focus on those that offer significant social outcomes.

You can apply for: -Funding packages from £30,000 up to £1m. -Interest as low as 0.5% above the base rate. -Length of term up to 20 years. -No hidden fees. -Optional capital holiday for first year. -Unsecured & Secured Loans, Equity and Quasi-Equity.

This programme is open to organisations that: -Are based and work in London. -Have been operating for at least one year. -Have a clear social mission. -Can provide a business and financial plan.

Contact Trust for London for a standard form for investment proposal.