Newsletter 17 October 2025 – Social Enterprise Spotlight

Green Accountancy Weekly Update

Week of 17 October 2025
For Social Enterprises, Ethical Businesses & Changemakers

 

New £17 million fund for social enterprises

The Community Builders Fund is now open for applications, offering loans from £100k to £1.5m to charities and social enterprises across England, Wales, and Scotland. The fund supports organisations tackling major social and environmental challenges, including:

  • Homelessness
  • Nature and environmental work
  • Co-operatives
  • Architectural heritage restoration

 

Bonus: An additional £1 million in grant funding is available for Black and racially minoritised organisations in England. Loans are fixed-rate and repayable over six years, offering stability in uncertain times.
Apply here

 

Capital grants up to £10,000 for community cohesion projects

The Common Ground Award is now accepting applications from VCSEs in England. Grants can be used for:

  • New builds or refurbishments
  • Equipment like laptops or furniture
  • Projects that build “bridging social capital”

 

Deadline: 21 November 2025
More info

 

HMRC’s new action plan for social enterprises

HMRC has published its 2025–2026 VCSE Action Plan, aiming to:

  • Reduce barriers to entry for social enterprises
  • Improve procurement access
  • Enhance understanding of the sector’s needs

 

This signals a more collaborative approach between HMRC and the social economy.
Read the plan

 

Thought leadership: reframing tax for social good

Duncan Thorp’s recent article calls for a tax justice movement that recognises the value created by social enterprises. He argues for a shift in narrative—from tax as a burden to tax as a tool for collective wellbeing.
Read the article

 

Key dates

  • 21 Nov 2025 – Deadline for Common Ground Award
  • Ongoing – Community Builders Fund applications
  • 26 Nov 2025 – Autumn Budget announcement

 

 

We’re here to help you make the most of these opportunities. Whether it’s grant applications, tax planning, or strategic advice, Green Accountancy supports ethical businesses every step of the way. Contact us if you would like to discuss this further.