This free online event is organised by Co-operatives UK.

Wednesday 04 November 2026, 9:30-11:00am

The 1.5 hour session provides an introduction to community shares as a funding option to build and grow community co-operatives. The session is aimed at community groups, grant funders, infrastructure bodies, and business development practitioners interested in specialising in community shares.

Trainers

Alice Wharton specialises in standards relating to the use of community shares (with-drawable, non-transferable share capital). She leads on the continued development, innovation and management of best practice guidance and ethical regulations and standards, including the Standard Mark and the Community Shares Handbook.

John Dawson works with external partners to raise the profile of community shares, and internal colleagues to deliver our work to inspire more communities to use this unique form of investment. John has a career history working in community enterprise, with a focus on business planning and investment. Previously John has worked for the funder Power to Change leading a number of their social investment programmes and has worked hands-on supporting community organisations, including as a licensed community shares practitioner.

Click here to book your free place