Unlocking the Right Resources to Fuel Your Mission
Running a social enterprise isn’t just about revenue — it’s about impact. But even the most purpose-driven organisations need funding to thrive. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale your impact, knowing where to find the right grants and support can change everything.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
✅ What makes a social enterprise fundable
🎯 Where to find grant opportunities
💡 How to increase your chances of success
🛠️ Bonus tools to help you stay organised
Why Grants Matter for Social Enterprises
Unlike traditional businesses, social enterprises operate with dual goals: generating income and delivering measurable community or environmental benefit. This makes them eligible for a unique range of funding options not available to for-profit-only entities.
Grants can:
- Cover startup or operational costs
- Fund specific projects or community initiatives
- Boost credibility and open doors to partnerships
But navigating the grant landscape can be tricky — especially when time and resources are limited.
What Makes a Social Enterprise Fundable?
To attract grant funding, most social enterprises need to show:
- A clear social or environmental mission
- Evidence of impact or community benefit
- Financial transparency and governance
- A strong, scalable project plan or delivery model
Even small community-led groups can win funding if these elements are in place.
Where to Find Grants (UK-Focused)
Here are trusted sources where UK-based social enterprises can find grant opportunities:
UnLtd
Offers awards and support for social entrepreneurs, especially in early stages. https://www.unltd.org.uk
The National Lottery Community Fund
Funds social impact projects of all sizes. https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk
Social Investment Business (SIB)
Provides grants and loans for charities and social enterprises. https://www.sibgroup.org.uk
Local Authorities
Many councils offer grant schemes or community funding pots. Check your local authority’s website.
Trusts & Foundations
E.g. Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, Lloyds Bank Foundation. Use https://www.fundingcentral.org.uk or https://www.grantfinder.co.uk
Access Foundation
Helps social enterprises become investment-ready. https://www.access-socialinvestment.org.uk
How to Improve Your Chances
To increase the likelihood of securing funding:
✔️ Align your application with the funder’s values and priorities
✔️ Keep your objectives measurable and realistic
✔️ Include a clear delivery plan with timelines and outcomes
✔️ Show how the funding will create lasting impact
✔️ Be ready to report on your results (most funders require it)
Many social enterprises get rejected due to lack of preparation or vague proposals — a bit of strategy goes a long way.
Bonus: Get Grant-Ready with Elevare
If you’re serious about funding, we recommend:
- Keeping your accounts up to date
- Creating a simple impact report
- Having a basic business plan or project proposal ready
- Preparing key documents like your CIC report or charity accounts
At Elevare Partners, we support purpose-led organisations with:
- Bookkeeping & year-end accounts
- Governance guidance (e.g. CICs, charities)
- Grant readiness and reporting support
- Business planning and virtual CFO support
Let’s Make Your Mission Fundable
If you’re overwhelmed or unsure where to start, book a free Discovery Call with our team. We’ll help you identify next steps, funding options, and the right tools for your mission.
👉 Book Your Free Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/elevarepartners-info/30-min-discovery-clarity-call-free