Skip to main content

INVESTING IN GROWTH

Larder cook school kitchen
Larder cook school kitchen

Could Social Investment be for you?

Are you curious about social investment but aren’t really sure if it’s for you?

Ever heard of blended finance (loan plus grant) and wondered if it’s the right fit for your organisation? If you think Social Investment might be the financial support you’re looking for to grow, we’d welcome an introductory chat. You can email our friendly team to arrange a chat, and they’ll talk you through anything you need to know: askchris@foundatonscotland.org.uk

And here is a quick introduction...

Helping your business grow

Since 2013, our Social Investment Fund has invested over £15 million in charities and social enterprises across Scotland — from community bakeries and youth centres to 3G pitches and water sports projects.

What is social investment? 

Social investment is about providing financial support to charities, social enterprises, and mission-driven businesses who want to create positive social impact that addresses local issues and needs. Unlike traditional grants, social investment is repaid over time at an affordable rate, which means the same money can be recycled and used again to help others. But Foundation Scotland goes one step further, offering a blend of 25% grant and 75% loan, meaning that only a portion of our investment is repayable, and loan repayments are spread over a term suited to individual social enterprises.

Why should I consider social investment as an option?

Through social investment, we help organisations build resilience, scale their impact, and create lasting change in their communities. Most importantly, our team get to know the people behind the businesses that we invest in, creating relationships and partnerships. 

Some of the enterprises we support