Advocacy & Representation
Defending the interests of the UK crowdfunding and alternative finance sector, working with government, regulators, and stakeholders for a thriving ecosystem.
Championing the Growth and Success of UK Crowdfunding
Join the UK Crowdfunding Association (UKCFA) as we advocate for the advancement of the crowdfunding and alternative finance industry, providing support, guidance, and representation for our members, while empowering businesses and entrepreneurs to access diverse funding opportunities.
Education & Awareness
Advocating for the benefits and opportunities of crowdfunding and alternative finance industry, fostering an informed market and broader acceptance of alternative financing.
Networking & Collaboration
Connecting industry members for shared experiences and innovation, empowering businesses and entrepreneurs through collective support.
Become a Member of UKCFA
The Leading Voice for UK Crowdfunding
We Empower and Support the Growth of the Crowdfunding and Alternative Finance Industry – From Innovative Startups to Established Platforms and Related Businesses.
We Enhance the Impact of Crowdfunding
Promoting Industry Excellence by Connecting Members, Regulators, Financial Services Firms, and Government, Both in the UK and Internationally.
We Are Shaping the Future of Funding
Fostering a Vibrant Crowdfunding and Alternative Finance Ecosystem that Enables Greater Access to Diverse Funding Opportunities and Drives Positive Change.
A Collective Force in Crowdfunding
A Network of Pioneers Shaping the Future of Crowdfunding
News & Announcement
Spotlight on Republic Europe
In this Spotlight Initiative edition, wAn interview with Siobhan Whitehouse, Director – Compliance, Risk & Financial Crime (UK) at Republic Europe Europe’s leading private investing platform
Spotlight on Envestors
In this Spotlight Initiative edition, we spoke to Oliver Woolley, CEO at Envestors, an authorised and regulated Crowdfunding platform driving innovation approved by the Home Office (UK Government) to endorse under the Innovator Business Founder visa.
Spotlight on Triodos Bank UK
In this Spotlight Initiative edition, we spoke to Whitni Thomas, Head of Corporate Finance, Triodos Bank UK, a sustainable bank with a mission to make money work for positive change.
Frequently asked questions
What is crowdfunding?
Crowdfunding is raising money directly from a large number of people all putting in relatively small amounts of money.
What is the difference between debt and equity crowdfunding?
Debt crowdfunding is when investors lend money to a company, who then repays the investor on a regular basis. The company has to pay their debts before taking any profits, and if the company went under then debtors would get paid first. So this is a lower risk form of investment than Equity.
Is there a minimum or maximum amount for investment or donation?
These will vary according to the crowdfunding platform you use. In some cases investments and donations can be as low as £5, with no ceiling on the amount you invest, others may cap the total investment you make as a percentage of your net assets.
Why are some crowdfunding platforms regulated and not others?
Every crowdfunding platform has made its own assessment as to whether it needs to be regulated by the FCA or any other body in order to conduct its business. The UK Crowdfunding Association does not take a position as to when regulation is and isn’t required.
What happens if a business or venture I invest in or donate to goes bust?
Your money is always at risk and if you make an investment and the company goes into liquidation, you risk losing some or all of your investment. You will be treated like other investors of the same class by the liquidators, who will divide up any remaining assets in the business in proportion to shareholdings.
How do I know a crowdfunding platform is following this code?
Crowdfunding platforms with the black UK Crowdfunding Association’s logo have signed up to this code of practice. Platforms that can not meet this requirement will not be invited to join the Association and will have their membership withdrawn if they fail to meet it on an ongoing basis.
What is the difference between a donation and an investment?
A donation is essentially a gift: you give money to a project that you like – they may or may not offer a reward such as the product, a T-shirt or your name being included in credits etc.
An investment is where you pay money to a company in the hope of making a return over time.
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