Setting up a CIC
A Community Interest Company is ideal if your business will benefit the community. Follow these steps to get registered.
1. Choose a company name
Check on Companies House. Must end with 'Community Interest Company' or 'CIC'.
2. Prepare your community interest statement
Describe how your activities will benefit the community. Reviewed by the CIC Regulator.
3. Draft your articles of association — with asset lock
Use the CIC model articles. The asset lock clause guarantees profits & assets stay in the community.
4. Complete form IN01 (incorporation)
Standard Companies House incorporation form: directors, registered office, share details.
5. Complete CIC36 (community interest statement)
Official CIC Regulator form declaring your community purpose. Submitted with IN01.
6. Submit to Companies House
Send IN01 + CIC36 together. Fee is £27 online or £40 by post.
7. Register for Corporation Tax with HMRC
Within 3 months of starting business activity.
8. Set up a CIC business bank account
Many banks offer accounts specifically for CICs and social enterprises.
9. Apply for an enhanced DBS check
Most community/youth/recovery contracts require enhanced DBS. Apply via gov.uk or an umbrella body.
10. Complete Safeguarding Level 2
Mandatory before working with vulnerable adults, young people, or in NHS settings. Online from ~£25.
11. Build your grant-readiness pack
Mission statement, theory of change, simple budget, safeguarding policy, monitoring plan. Unlocks National Lottery, Sport England, Comic Relief, Tudor Trust, PCC violence-reduction funds.
12. Charity Commission decision (if income > £5k/yr)
Above £5,000/year you can also register as a charity for tax relief & Gift Aid. Below £5k stay as a CIC.
Useful links