Setting Up a Community Interest Company (CIC)
Support for small community businesses, social enterprises, and grassroots projects
A Community Interest Company (CIC) is a special type of limited company designed for people who want to run a business that benefits the community rather than private shareholders. This page offers a clear guide and practical tools to help you get started.
Empowering Local Ventures
Neighborhood Hub Launch
Supporting Sustainable Growth
Eco-Friendly Market Setup
Fostering Community Engagement
Arts Collective Formation
Building Strong Foundations
Local Sports Facility
Empowering Local Ventures
Neighborhood Hub Launch
Supporting Sustainable Growth
Eco-Friendly Market Setup
What is a CIC?
A CIC is designed for people who want to run a business that exists to benefit others.
It offers the flexibility of a company, with the social focus of a charity.
CICs can:
- Run community events and festivals
- Deliver wellbeing or environmental projects
- Support arts, education, or heritage initiatives
- Trade ethically while giving back to local people
They are regulated by the Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies to ensure transparency and community benefit.
Inspiring Success Stories from Community Ventures
Discover our clear, step-by-step guidance to set up your community interest company and empower local growth.
Tools & Templates
To make the process easier, we’ve created a collection of practical tools and templates you can adapt for your own use:
- CIC Setup Checklist – everything you’ll need in one place
- Example Community Interest Statement – wording to help you describe your purpose clearly
- Simple Business Plan Template – structure your goals, community benefit, and sustainability
- Annual Report Template – for transparent yearly reporting
(Available to download soon — or get in touch if you’d like early access.)
Building Sustainability
A CIC thrives when it blends purpose with practicality.
Here are some ways to keep your community business strong and self-sustaining:
Keep your finances transparent and your purpose clear
Offer workshops, events, or products that reflect your values
Apply for small grants or local enterprise funding
Build a membership base or community contribution fund
Partner with other CICs and local initiatives
Mentoring and Guidance
At Swords & Spheres, we help community-driven businesses and creative enterprises find their feet.
We can support you with:
- Advice on forming and structuring your CIC
- Website design and digital infrastructure
- Branding and communications for social enterprises
- Ongoing mentorship and training
If you’re ready to turn your idea into a working community business, we’re here to help you sharpen your vision and give it structure.
Get in touch to learn more, share your ideas, or book a 1:1 support session.
Community Success Stories
Discover inspiring feedback from local businesses thriving through our expert community company setups.
“Their guidance made launching our community interest company seamless and effective. Truly a trusted partner!”
Harper Lee
Founder, GreenLeaf Market
“Professional, thorough, and supportive—Swords & Spheres exceeded our expectations in every step of the process.”
Elias Grant
Director, Community Roots Initiative
“Exceptional service that truly understands and supports the needs of community-focused ventures. Highly recommended!”
Amara Singh
Coordinator, Neighborhood Arts Collective
Partner with Us to Empower Communities
Discover how our expert guidance can help you launch a thriving community interest company that makes a real local impact.