In February 2022 we launched our loanstock scheme. We are seeking loanstock as a young nursery business to be able to pay workers and grow to meet our mission and aims.
Thank you to those that have offered loanstock! We are in a good position for our busy Spring. We are still inviting applications for loanstock, to meet our target.
We are seeking small loans from you, our customers and community. We need your support please. Could you loan £500 – £4000 for 3 years or more? We are offering interest on the investment, up to 3%.
We’d rather build relationships with you than with banks. Banks have no interest in us other than to make money. Please read on for details.
What is loanstock?
Loanstock is a way for us as a registered co-operative society to raise capital.
It is a targeted ethical investment scheme with a high level of accountability, as investors know exactly what their money is being used for.
A loanstock scheme is essentially a bond scheme whereby people who want to support a co-operative lend money and can choose to receive a small interest on the investment.
A loan-stock agreement does not confer any constitutional rights to the loanstock holder; you would not gain any democratic rights or control over the society. Loan stock can not be converted into shares.
The loans will be unsecured. You should satisfy yourself with the details within the business plan and financial documents. We are a registered society with the Financial Conduct Authority (RS004797).
If you would like to apply to offer loanstock or are interested in what it entails please email and we will be happy to send you a link to our business plan and financial projections for the next 3 years.
Capital investment up to the launch of our loanstock offer
Founding members invested a total of £4000 at the start of 2021. There is no agreement to pay interest on these investments and the first repayment is due in 2023. A further £1500 of loans have been provided by members.
Length of loan, specifics and interest
We are:
- seeking loans of at least 3 years, ideally 5 years or more.
- open to offering interest at 0-3% – please include details of your desired rate on your application.
- We will accept offers of a minimum of £500 and maximum of £4000.
The co-operative may accept applications for early repayment of loanstock if it considers that there are sufficient funds available, or if a replacement investment can be arranged,
We are open to conversations about terms and what works for you.
In 2022, we are looking to raise a total of £12,000 in loanstock.
Example of loans
| Loan | Length of Time | Percentage Rate (APR) | Final Repayment |
| 500 | 3 years | 2% | 530 |
| 750 | 5 years | 1.5% | 806.25 |
| 1250 | 3 years | 3% | 1362.50 |
| 1250 | 4 years | 2.75% | 1387.50 |
| 2000 | 3½ years | 0.5% | 2035 |
| 2500 | 5 years | 1% | 2625 |
| 3000 | 4 years | 2% | 3240 |
| 3200 | 4 ½ years | 3% | 3632 |
| 4000 | 3 years | 0.5% | 4060 |
What are the next steps?
If you would like to apply to offer loanstock or are interested in what it entails please email and we will be happy to send you a link to our business plan and financial projections for the next 3 years.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email us. We can also arrange to meet on zoom or talk over the phone.
Many thanks
Ryan Sandford-Blackburn and Cynthia Troche.
Earthed Up! 