Community Interest Companies (CICs) have grown rapidly since their introduction in 2005, with the West Midlands seeing a steady rise in CICs across youth work, health and wellbeing, creative industries, environmental action, and employability. Many founders are drawn to the model for its flexibility, entrepreneurial spirit, and ability to combine trading with social purpose.

But how have funders responded to this growth? What does good practice look like, and what challenges remain when supporting CICs?

This roundtable, hosted by WMFN and kindly supported by Rathbones, will explore:

• The status, structure and regulatory requirements of CICs

• Examples of good practice in funding CICs from national and regional funders

• The challenges funders face in assessing and supporting CICs

• How funders can contribute to the wider social enterprise ecosystem in the West Midlands

Contributors include the School for Social Entrepreneurs, Barrow Cadbury Trust, Lloyds Bank Foundation, Key Fund, and the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Join us to share your experience, connect with peers, and help shape the future of funding CICs across our region.

This event is generously supported and hosted by Rathbones.

Book your place today and be part of the conversation.