Big Issue Invest are calling upon early stage social businesses, especially those based outside London and the South East to apply for the Corporate Social Venturing (CSV) 2015 programme which has officially launched. The CSV programme is specifically tailored for early stage social businesses that often face challenges when it comes to securing finance.
Against the current climate of cuts and austerity, developing sustainable businesses that tackle some of society’s biggest challenges is more important than ever.
The programme is particularly focused on developing social businesses outside London and the South East targeting 80% of applicants based outside of these areas.
It is not necessary for applicants to be trading however proof of concept is essential. To be considered, ventures must operate in the following sectors: arts and culture, education, employment and training, tackling homelessness, sustainable and community transport, health and social care, environment and financial inclusion.
Successful applicants will have the opportunity to pitch for up to £50,000 investment. Alongside this they will be assigned at least one lead mentor from the programmes’ investment and support partners, attend professionally designed workshops and learn to how measure their social impact.
Candidates will also have the opportunity to network, work with and learn from other social entrepreneurs both on the current programme and those who have gone before.
Thirteen social businesses received investment and mentoring in 2014.
The CSV programme is an innovative partnership between Big Issue Invest and Barclays (as part of their commitment to impact five million young futures by 2015) with investment and support from five partners: Experian, First Ark, Fusion 21, Places for People and The University of Northampton. CSV is also supported by the Cabinet Office, as part of the £10m Social Incubator Fund.
While the process is a competitive one, it is collaborative too. It is about bringing people with diverse skill sets and backgrounds together who have one aim; helping fledgling social businesses unleash a profound and sustainable impact.
For further information and to apply, visit: www.bigissueinvest-csv.com.
Deadline: Monday 25 May 2015