10/11/2026
💡 CIC, CHARITY OR SOCIAL ENTERPRISE – DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE?
Have an idea to make a positive difference in your community? 🌱
Before starting your organisation, it's important to understand the different structures available and which one may be right for your goals.
Here's a quick breakdown:
🏢 1. Community Interest Company (CIC)
A CIC is a type of limited company created to benefit the community, with an asset lock to protect its assets for community purposes.
❤️ 2. Charity
A charity is an organisation established exclusively for charitable purposes and must meet the relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
🌍 3. Social Enterprise
A social enterprise is a business that puts social or environmental objectives at the heart of its activities and uses trading to achieve its mission.
Before choosing your structure, consider:
✔ Your organisation's purpose.
✔ How you plan to generate income.
✔ How profits or surpluses will be used.
✔ Your governance and legal responsibilities.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right structure depends on what you want to achieve and how you plan to operate.
🤝 **How can WNSET help?**
West Northamptonshire Social Enterprise Towns CIC (WNSET) works to strengthen the local social enterprise ecosystem by connecting organisations, sharing knowledge and supporting social enterprise development.
🌐 Discover more about WNSET: https://www.wnset.org/
💬 LET'S START A CONVERSATION!
Are you planning to start a CIC, charity or social enterprise? Or are you already running one?
Tell us about your organisation in the comments. We'd love to hear your story!
📢 Share this post with someone who is thinking about starting an organisation with a social purpose.