Ethical investment

Help fund a fairer, more prosperous Wales

With Robert Owen Community Banking, you can make an investment for good – not just a good investment. We offer low-risk opportunities whether you’re a business, charity, local authority or simply someone wanting to make a difference with their money.

Why invest with us?

Many small businesses and individuals across Wales struggle to access affordable bank credit. At the same time, organisations are putting money into a banking system that excludes local communities.

At Robert Owen Community Banking, we’re closing the loop by operating a system of fair finance – connecting Welsh investors with Welsh businesses. We believe that by working together, local people can create a stronger, more sustainable economy for Wales.

• Invest from £5,000 over 18 months
• Up to 4% fixed rate of return
• Partially backed by the British Business Bank

Businesses &
individual investors

Invest your surpluses to help fuel the local economy sustainably – for returns that benefit everyone.

Charities & social
enterprises

Use your reserves to diversify your impact, by supporting local people and purposeful organisations who need help.

Local authorities
& councils

Put your money where it matters, in Welsh businesses and people who’re improving their communities.

Frequently asked questions

What’s different about investing with Robert Owen Community Banking?

As a not-for-profit organisation, we’re interested in helping communities to prosper rather than filling the pockets of distant shareholders.

When you invest with a mainstream bank or broker, your money is poured into the global economy. So, you won’t necessarily know whether it’s being put to good use or funding businesses that are damaging to people and the planet.

Investing with us, on the other hand, means investing in Welsh businesses who care about their surroundings. It means more sustainable communities, more local jobs and more money in local people’s pockets – including yours.

We often support great businesses that don’t fit mainstream bank lending criteria or simply prefer using an ethical finance company. Either way, we really get to know our potential customers, which means we can make sensible decisions about the money we lend.

What’s more, because of the genuine relationships we build, many customers come back for follow-up funding to help grow their businesses. As people tell us time and time again, it’s not just about the money; it’s the fact that somebody has confidence in them.

How will my investment be used?

We’ll turn your investment into loan capital to help local businesses to develop and grow. These are often small-to-medium enterprises that will revitalise our economy, modernise our high streets and generate opportunities for many people. Companies that want to do good, socially or environmentally.

What’s the minimum I can invest and over what period?

We’re looking for medium to long-term investments, starting at £5,000 over 18 months.

What kind of return can I expect?

You’ll receive a very competitive fixed rate of up to 4% a year, over an agreed investment term.

What other benefits might I see?

Many of the businesses we help want to have a positive impact on their communities socially or environmentally. So, as well as boosting the local economy, your investment may end up funding a new sustainable product or a service that brings people together.

Whether you’re investing as an individual or on behalf of your company, doing business with us is a great, and measurable, way of giving back to the community. Think of it as contribution to a brighter future for Wales.

How will I know my investment is safe?

We’re a member of Responsible Finance and our loans are backed by the British Business Bank’s Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) scheme.

You might like to know we’re trusted when it comes to public lending programmes, having worked closely with local authorities, statutory groups and the Big Lottery Fund. Oh, and we’ve won two Citibank responsible finance awards.

Another thing worth telling you is that we don’t have lending targets. So, without pressure or agenda, we can make prudent choices with your money.

Will my money be covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS)?

No, but our lending in underwritten by the aforementioned Enterprise Finance Guarantee (EFG) scheme. You can read more about the EFG on the British Business Bank website

Got another question?

With support from investors like you, local businesses and social enterprises are helping Welsh communities to thrive.

Our centre puts children on a level playing field, where they can learn through hands-on experience.

Trevor Jones, Eden Education Centre, Llanhilleth

The family-run Eden Education Centre is helping children fulfil their potential through pioneering teaching methods. And Lego.

Our centre puts children on a level playing field, where they can learn through hands-on experience.

Trevor Jones, Eden Education Centre, Llanhilleth

The family-run Eden Education Centre is helping children fulfil their potential through pioneering teaching methods. And Lego.

Our centre puts children on a level playing field, where they can learn through hands-on experience.

Trevor Jones, Eden Education Centre, Llanhilleth

The family-run Eden Education Centre is helping children fulfil their potential through pioneering teaching methods. And Lego.

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Help fund a fairer, more prosperous Wales.

Make an investment for good, not just a good investment.