Partner in the Spotlight: Robert Owen Community Banking Fund – Investing in Communities Across Wales
Our partner members share our mission to help communities thrive, and Partner in the Spotlight is our way of celebrating the brilliant work they’re doing across Wales.
This season, we’re shining the spotlight on: Robert Owen Community Banking Fund (ROCBF).
Finance for a truly Welsh Circular Economy
“Since 2006, we’ve supported businesses, homeowners and community organisations across Wales with fair, ethical finance. As a not-for-profit community lender, we work closely with local authorities and partners to provide practical funding that helps people improve their homes, strengthen local enterprises, and invest in a more sustainable future.
We provide business and community loans across Wales, and we also work with Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf and Monmouthshire councils to offer affordable finance for essential home improvements and energy-efficiency measures. These schemes help homeowners carry out work that makes their homes warmer, safer and more efficient.
Through our partnership with the British Business Bank, we offer business finance under the UK Growth Guarantee Scheme. This enables us to provide loans of up to £100,000, repayable over periods of up to five years. The scheme has helped a wide range of businesses and social enterprises to grow, adopt more sustainable practices, and, where possible, improve their use of green energy.
We’re grateful for the support of the organisations that invest in ROCBF. Their backing helps us offer flexible, affordable finance to the communities we serve, and strengthens the work we do across Wales. We’re also grateful to community organisations and councils that invest with us, thereby keeping their capital within the local Welsh economy and enabling us to provide ethical and affordable finance to the communities we serve. They are investing in a truly Welsh Circular Economy.
Widening access to reliable electric vehicles
Through our Low Carbon Transport initiative, funded by Welsh Government, we help social businesses and community groups access reliable electric vehicles without the upfront financial burden. Our EV leasing and lease-to-buy options offer a straightforward way for organisations to cut emissions and reduce running costs.
How does it work? We support organisations throughout the process – from identifying suitable vehicles to setting up a lease that fits their needs. If your organisation is exploring greener transport, you can contact our team at: evleasing@rocbf.co.uk.
We’re proud to work alongside Welsh Government, CTA Cymru, Transport for Wales, and our delivery partner TrydaNi Community Car Clubs, helping communities stay connected in a more sustainable way.”
DTA Wales are delighted to have ROCBF as part of our network and to showcase the positive impact of their work across Wales. We urge you to get in contact if their work is of interest to you, your community or organisation.
