Community Interest Companies (CICs): Could This Be the Right Business Model for You?
From Creative Passion To Profit · Mahmood Reza
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Show Notes
If you’re building a business that’s all about making a difference — but you still care about generating profit — a social enterprise might be your perfect fit. And when it comes to legal structures, a Community Interest Company (CIC) is one of the most popular options out there.
In this episode:
“Community Interest Companies (CICs): Could This Be the Right Business Model for You?”
We break down what a CIC actually is, how it compares to a charity, and what makes it different from a private company. From the community interest test to the all-important asset lock, you’ll learn what’s involved in setting up a CIC — and whether it’s the right path for your social enterprise.
After decades of working with social enterprises and CICs, I know that choosing the right structure is key to building a sustainable, impactful business. This episode explains your options in plain English — so you can make an informed decision.
Timestamped Summary:
[00:00:00] – Intro: Why social enterprises are more than just “good intentions”
[00:01:04] – How a CIC fits into the world of social enterprise
[00:02:12] – Profit for good: how social enterprises operate and grow
[00:03:00] – CICs explained: why they’re so popular and how they work
[00:04:11] – Defining your community: a vital first step for a CIC
[00:05:00] – The community interest test — what it is and how to pass it
[00:06:00] – Two types of CICs: limited by shares or limited by guarantee
[00:06:53] – The asset lock: how it protects your community’s interests
[00:07:55] – CIC vs Charity: which is right for your mission?
[00:08:54] – Recap: the key points to know before you set up a CIC
If this episode gave you clarity on CICs, feel free to share it with someone who’s thinking of starting a social enterprise.
If you enjoyed this episode, we’d love it if you could subscribe on Apple Podcasts — and leave a quick review. It really helps more people find these practical business tips.
Plan it. Do it. Profit.
Mentioned in this episode:
Training
Training
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