Due diligence

What we're looking for

We will be looking for evidence of:
- how well your proposed solution meets the need
- the expected risks and returns across impact on people, system change and financial outcomes
- the likely profile of your identified co-investors
- your capability and track record in the target area
This leads up to presentations to our Investment Committee, which meets most Wednesdays. They will often ask for further diligence on specific areas.
This will lead to approval of a draft Heads of Terms, which set out the basis upon which we will invest.

What do applicants need to provide?

To start the process, you will be asked to submit the following materials:
Business plan
Financial model including sensitivities
Social impact plan
Throughout the process you will likely receive requests for further information from the investment team member working with you. This is in order to validate assumptions and provide evidence of track record.
What will Big Society Capital do?

The investment team member responsible for the application will arrange a kick off meeting to explain the process. This will be followed by management meetings so we can get to know the team and the proposal in more detail.
You will also be asked to meet with Big Society Capital’s Investment Committee during the process. This meeting allows the Investment Committee to learn more about your organisation and team – but it is also an opportunity for you to get to know us as a strategic partner and to explore how we can support you as an organisation.
How long will it take?

It can take between three and six months to complete due diligence. In practice, we find that the timelines vary considerably depending on the extent proposals change or the need for additional evidence.
We recognise that all elements of a proposal may not be fully formed at the point of application and often co-develop investments along with an intermediary. For example, we typically work closely with intermediaries to develop their impact screening and measurement methodology before we will make an investment commitment. Also, given the importance of co-investment, there are likely to be periods during the process when you are focused more on engaging with other investors than with us.