Individual members

Our members are people that understand that thriving local businesses are essential for sustainable communities and believe Foundation East can make a difference.

Members buy shares, each share costs £1 and the minimum investment for an individual or sole trader is £100. The maximum investment per investor is £20,000. There are two classes of shares, ordinary shares that may be withdrawn at any time and community investment tax relief (CITR) shares which must be invested for 5 years and qualify for 25% tax relief over 5 years.

The capital raised through share purchase is carefully managed; this way Foundation East is able to support numerous small businesses.

Foundation East is a mutual society accountable to its members, who have democratic rights over how the society is managed and the decisions it makes. Members are valued for their experience, knowledge and skills and many have found that becoming involved in the Loans Panel or the Finance, Property and Marketing Committees can be deeply rewarding.

Benefits of membership

• Tangible evidence of your commitment to local business
• Opportunities to get involved in your community
• Tax relief (CITR shares only)

If would like to become a member of Foundation East please complete the membership application form in our Prospectus and post it to us with your payment. If you have any questions, please contact us. 

Download our Prospectus (file size: 936KB)