LEGAL STRUCTURES
Once you have chosen a suitable community broadband model you will need to form the right structure for the organisation to deliver it.
There are different options that you could consider. These might include options such as setting up as a commercial company intent on making a profit from the activity, or you may prefer a not for profit model which would mean that any excess revenue that you achieved would be reinvested back into the community or improved service provision.
Some of the possible not for profit structures for an organisation delivering improved broadband to a community or defined area can be explored by clicking on the buttons on the left.
Choosing a name for your organisation
As part of the process of registration of your organisation you must chose a name. The Registrar at Companies House or the CIC Regulator must agree to the proposed choice of name and will have views on whether it is too similar to an existing organisation, one previously registered within the last 10 years, or if it contains sensitive or prohibited words. Companies House and the FSA have produced guidance on choosing a name and it is recommended that you should check if there are any organisations already registered with a similar name to that which you propose for your CLT.
WANT SUPPORT AND ADVICE?
There are several organisations that can give you guidance when setting up a social or community enterprise;
Foundation for Social Entrepreneurs (UnLtd)
A charitable organisation which supports the creation and activities of social entrepreneurs offering business consultancy and funding advice.
Plunkett Foundation
Provides support for rural co-operatives and social enterprises including advisory services and funding.
Regional Infrastructure for Social Enterprise
A membership organisation that provides support for social enterprises.
