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Empowering social enterprises and charities in Kent and Medway.
The Kent Social Enterprise Loan Fund (KSELF) is a unique blended finance programme designed to support social enterprises and charities across Kent and Medway. By combining unsecured loans with a grant element, KSELF helps organisations overcome financial barriers and create lasting positive change in local communities.
KSELF offers unsecured loans from £10,000 to £100,000, with up to 30% of the loan amount provided as a grant. This flexible funding model is ideal for organisations looking to grow, innovate, or sustain their impact.
Why choose KSELF?
Bridging the funding gap for social enterprises and charities.
Encouraging enterprise and sustainability in the social sector.
Reinvesting in communities – once loans are repaid, funds are recycled to support more local projects.
Our aim is simple: to break down barriers to finance and empower organisations to deliver meaningful change.
Connect with our Grants and Social Loans Manager
If you’d like to learn more about KSELF or have any questions, we’d love to hear from you.
In the first instance, please contact our Grants and Social Loans Manager, who will talk through your idea, check eligibility, and guide you on the next steps.
You can contact our Grants and Social Loans Manager, James Horne, by:
Email: james@kentcf.org.uk
Phone: 01303 815 153
Simon Hoyle, Smarden Community Store
Social enterprises and charities based in Kent and Medway that need financial support to start, grow, or strengthen their services.
Apply for an unsecured loan between £10,000 and £100,000.
Receive up to 30% of the loan amount as a grant.
Repay the loan, and your contribution helps fund future community projects.
Discover how loan and grant funding has made a difference to these local organisations.
If you’d like to learn more about the Kent Social Enterprise Loan Fund or have any questions, get in touch with our team today. We’re here to help you access the funding you need to make a difference.
KSELF is a blended finance programme offering unsecured loans between £10,000 and £100,000, with up to 30% of the loan amount provided as a grant. It supports social enterprises and charities in Kent and Medway, helping them overcome financial barriers and create lasting community impact.
Eligible applicants include:
Social enterprises and charities based in Kent or Medway.
Organisations with clear social aims and community benefit in their governing documents.
Entities where trading activities form a significant part of income.
Organisations that retain assets and profits for community benefit.
Structures such as charities, CICs, companies limited by guarantee, and industrial and provident societies.
Organisations with specific power to borrow
Please note: Individuals, unincorporated entities, and private/statutory sector organisations are not eligible
You can apply for an unsecured loan of £10,000 to £100,000, with up to 30% of the loan amount awarded as a grant. Loan terms typically range from 1 to 5 years, with a fixed interest rate of 5%.
Blended finance: Loan plus grant support.
Unsecured loans: No collateral required.
Tailored packages: Flexible terms and financial planning support.
Community reinvestment: Repaid funds are re-loaned to other local projects.
Expert guidance: Ongoing support from Kent Community Foundation’s Grants and Social Loans Manager.
Funding can support:
Growth and expansion of social enterprises.
Capital projects such as building improvements.
Working capital to stabilise operations.
Innovation and new services that benefit the community.
Most loans are unsecured, with repayment over 2-5 years. A modest set-up fee may apply for business support provided. Terms are tailored to each applicant.
Yes. Kent Community Foundation provides investment readiness support and ongoing financial planning advice to help you succeed.
Since 2012, KSELF has supported over 70 organisations, providing £3.5 million in loans and grants.
Case studies include:
Smarden Community Store – secured funding for long-term financial stability.
Alkham Valley Community Project – built a roof over their outdoor arena.
Queenborough Harbour Trust CIC – revitalised the harbour for community benefit.
Visit our website or contact James Horne, Grants and Social Loans Manager, for personalised advice. We’re here to help you access the funding you need to make a difference.
