Responsible finance is provided by a diverse network of mission-led organisations working across the UK.
Many are known as Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs). They share a commitment to widening access to fair finance and creating positive outcomes for the people, businesses and communities they serve.
What is a CDFI?
CDFIs are finance providers with a social purpose.
They provide finance where it can make a difference, including to customers who may find it difficult to access appropriate finance from mainstream providers.
Some CDFIs have been rooted in particular towns, cities and regions for decades. Others work across large parts of the UK or specialise in particular types of customer or finance.
They vary considerably in size and approach but share a commitment to widening access to finance and creating positive social and economic impact.
Who do CDFIs support?
CDFIs across the UK support different types of customers.
People and households
Personal-lending CDFIs provide fair and affordable credit to people who may have limited options elsewhere, often alongside wider support designed to improve financial resilience.
 Businesses and entrepreneurs
Business-lending CDFIs support start-ups, small businesses and established businesses with finance to start, sustain and grow.
They often work with viable businesses that have been unable to access all the finance they need from mainstream sources.
Social enterprises and charities
Social investment providers finance organisations working to create positive social and environmental impact, with an understanding of the different business models and funding needs of purpose-led organisations.
Responsible Finance members
Responsible Finance is the membership body for the UK’s responsible finance sector.
Our members include CDFIs and other mission-led finance providers working to build a financial system that works better for people, businesses and communities.
Looking for a finance provider?
You don’t need to identify individual providers from our membership to start looking for finance.
Finding Finance is our dedicated directory for people, businesses and social enterprises looking for responsible finance. It can provide information about finance providers that may be available in your area or relevant to your needs.