Big Issue Invest

Contact person: Linda Wickstrom
Phone:

Big Issue Invest

Since 2005 we have supported hundreds of organisations with £80+ million in funding. Our investments are tailored to fit the needs of our investees, who we work closely with throughout their journey to grow and deliver positive impact for individuals, in their local communities and wider society.
 
We offer a range of repayable finance options, from loans as small as £20,000 to larger investments of up to £4 million. Alongside this we offer investment-readiness grants, corporate mentoring, impact measurement and a dedicated account manager support to help your organisation make the most of the investment.
 
To find out more about the Big Issue Invest and our investment options, visit us on https://www.bigissue.com/invest/investments-funds-programmes/ 

Our Funds

Our Funds

Growth Impact Fund

The Growth Impact Fund offers businesses investment and support to entrepreneurs to grow their impact and sales. They support organisations with diverse representation at board and leadership level.

Impact Loans England

Through our Impact Loans England programme, Big Issue Invest is offering loan finance between £20,000 and £400,000 to social enterprises and charities in England. Some of our funds also have non-repayable grant layers included of up to 20%.

London Housing Fund

With support from the Greater London Authority, Big Issue Invest launched a £10 million Fund to finance the provision of new affordable housing in London.

Social Enterprise Investment Fund II

The Big Issue Invest Social Enterprise Investment Fund II LP (SEIF II) is the successor to SEIF I, our first social impact investment fund launched in 2010, and now having invested over £8 million into 21 social enterprises.

Social Impact Debt Fund IV

The Big Issue Invest Social Impact Debt Fund IV lends £1m-£4m to established socially impactful organisations in the UK, with a history of revenue generation, profitability, and assets to support secured debt.

Case studies by investor

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A group of people in the middle of the road in a park posing for a picture
Birmingham Supported Living 2010

Birmingham Supported Living (2010) provides accommodation and support for people who suffer from mental health issues, learning disabilities, physical conditions, autism and asperges. Its mission is to provide homes that are safe and supported and to provide care that enhances the quality of life for residents, who are generally seeking long term homes and support.

Duration
4 Years
Cost of capital
6.75%
Turnover
1.2m
Amount invested
£220k
Year of investment
2021
Investor
Big Issue Invest
  • Product type
    Secured loan

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Group of young children from Leicester Riders Foundation standing together collecting a sports award in a basketball court
Leicester Riders Basketball Foundation

The Foundation delivers programmes around basketball and a wider social agenda in Leicester, Leicestershire, and the East Midlands. These programmes are usually delivered in partnership with schools, local authorities, local universities and colleges of further education, housing associations, community groups, and charities.

The Foundation’s programmes cover a wide range of activities, including basketball participation, basketball elite programmes, working with disability, education, healthy living, aiding social inclusion, and a variety of other related areas.

Duration
6 Years
Cost of capital
8%
Turnover
£1.8m
Amount invested
£350k
Year of investment
2019
Investor
Big Issue Invest
  • Product type
    Unsecured loan (incl. overdrafts)

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Image of a woman in the community garden
Linskill and North Tyneside Community Development Trust

Linskill, a thriving community hub in North Shields, Tyneside, provides a place for members of the local community to learn, relax and engage in activities. They attract more than 260,000 visitors per year and their mission is to operate as a valued, self-sustaining, community anchor organisations providing opportunities, support and guidance to local communities, responding to local needs. 

Duration
5 Years
Cost of capital
1% (year 1) 3% in subsequent years
Turnover
£2m
Amount invested
£130,000
Year of investment
2025
Investor
Big Issue Invest
  • Product type
    Secured loan