The Big Leap: Supporting Transformational Change in Communities
At Do it Now Now (DiNN), we know the unique challenges faced by Black and Global Majority-led charities and social enterprises. That’s why we’re working with Pathway Fund, Lendoe, and NatWest Social & Community Capital to create Big Business Round 1 with Pathway Fund – a funding programme designed to remove barriers and equip your organisation with the tools, funding, and support needed to thrive.
Pathway Fund’s expertise as a Black and Global Majority-led social investment wholesaler underpins this unique opportunity. Together, we’re addressing systemic inequalities in funding by creating a blended finance model that meets organisations’ needs in a bespoke manner, equipping them for long-term success.
The Origins of the Funding
The funding for Big Business Round 1 with Pathway Fund comes from a powerful initiative designed to support communities most affected by the cost of living crisis. This programme is made possible through funding provided by Access – The Foundation for Social Investment's Cost of Living Support Programme, which draws on resources from the Dormant Assets Scheme.
Access – The Foundation for Social Investment is committed to empowering charities and social enterprises to address pressing social challenges through enterprise-based solutions. By deploying these funds alongside co-investments via our blended finance model, we’re creating a pathway for Black and Global Majority-led organisations to access vital resources and make a meaningful impact.
This partnership underscores our shared mission to provide equitable, sustainable support. Together with Pathway Fund and Access, we aim to break down barriers and ensure that Black and Global Majority-led organisations have the tools and funding they need to thrive.
By joining this programme, you’ll not only gain access to funding but also become part of a larger movement working to create equity and opportunity for underserved communities. Let’s tackle these challenges together.
Our Collaboration with NatWest Social & Community Capital
We’re also thrilled to highlight the role of NatWest Social & Community Capital (SC&C) in bringing Big Business Round 1 with Pathway Fund to life. As a long-time collaborator, NatWest SC&C has been instrumental in supporting our mission to empower Black and Global Majority-led organisations. Their commitment to providing accessible funding solutions for social enterprises and community businesses has helped us design a programme that truly meets the needs of so many Black and Global Majority organisations that are doing such great things.
Over the past few years, their expertise and collaboration have been invaluable in shaping this initiative. NatWest SC&C shares our vision for equitable funding and sustainable growth. Their support has enabled us to craft a blended finance model that reduces barriers and unlocks potential for organisations like yours.
What Makes This Programme Unique?
Big Business goes beyond traditional funding. We offer up to £40,000 in grant funding, matched to a social investment loan, along with tailored support to help your organisation grow sustainably. This programme is specifically designed to tackle urgent issues, including poverty alleviation and racial equity, in Black and Global Majority communities affected by the cost of living crisis.
This is not just about funding – this is about your organisation’s future. We meet you – where you are. And we walk with you as you build a future that drives real change.
Who Should Apply?
We are calling on Black and Global Majority-led charities and social enterprises that are ready to grow. To apply, you must:
Be delivering services in England, with a focus on underrepresented communities affected by the cost of living crisis (priority for IMD 1-3 areas);
Be Black or Global Majority-led, with leadership rooted in lived experience;
Have an annual income between £150,000 and £1 million;
Be actively generating income through trading activities and ready to scale these efforts; and
Be committed to reducing dependency on grants and increasing long-term sustainability.
If this sounds like you, don’t miss this rare opportunity to access the funding and resources you need to amplify your impact.
How Lendoe Will Support You
A cornerstone of this programme is our collaboration with Lendoe, a Black-led financial services provider committed to empowering underrepresented organisations. Lendoe will work closely with you to:
Map out the social investment opportunities best suited to your organisation;
Offer one-on-one support, alongside the critical friend support from DiNN, to strengthen your funding applications; and
Guide you through the post-application process to ensure you’re set up for success.
Lendoe’s expertise makes navigating the social investment landscape more accessible, giving you the confidence to secure the resources you need.
What You’ll Gain
This programme isn’t just about financial support – it’s about equipping your organisation to thrive. You’ll receive:
Blended Finance Funding: Up to £40,000 in grant funding matched to a social investment loan (representing at most 50% of the loan amount);
Tailored Capacity Building: Expert support in financial management, legal guidance through Prime Advocates, and tools to strengthen your business model;
Collaborative Growth: Opportunities to learn from and connect with peer organisations; and
A Partner for the Journey: Guidance on every step of the way from Do it Now Now and Lendoe.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Blended finance programmes like Big Business are rare in the sector, offering a truly equitable approach to funding. By combining grants and loans, we reduce the risks and barriers often faced by Black and Global Majority-led organisations. This is your chance to access the support you deserve and build a foundation for lasting change.
Swati Pujari, Project Manager at Pathway Fund said: "Pathway is excited to partner with Do it Now Now in the game-changing ‘Big Business’ programme. The blended capital offered through ‘Big Business’, is an important financial product that Pathway is co-developing with Do it Now Now, to ensure that Black and Ethnically Minoritised-led organisations are able to effectively drive positive change, despite the cost-of-living crisis. This programme is about breaking barriers and reaching communities and organisations that offer a huge amount to this country – and need to be catalysed, so that they can do even more. This is about engendering long-term financial sustainability. It’s about enabling and empowering them to do what they do best. And it’s about driving, equitable, inclusive growth."
Applications Opened 14 January 2025
The application process is designed to be supportive and accessible, with rolling reviews until funds are fully allocated. We encourage you to apply early to secure your place.
For questions or to book a support session, email us at funding@doitnownow.com.
Together, let’s build a future where your organisation thrives – and your community flourishes.
