Because B4RN is non-profit we aren’t interested in commercial speculation, so we only extend our network into communities where we’re wanted. Each new area that invites B4RN in needs to raise a certain level of investment to cover the work and materials required for their area’s installation. Currently, a significant amount of that cost is being met with government voucher funding.

Shares

Every community’s core investment is made up of shares, the value of which can be ring-fenced for supporting the build-out in their area.

  • Minimum shareholding £100 / maximum £100,000.
  • All shareholders are members of B4RN. One member one vote.
  • Shares must be held for a minimum of 3 years.
  • Investment in shares attract the current rate of 5% which can paid out or reinvested year on year.
  • Some shareholders choose to invest £1,500 and claim free connection worth £150. (The £1,500 must be invested in a single transaction to qualify for a free connection. Full rules here.)
  • Shares can only ever be sold back to B4RN at £1 each.

Find Out More

For a more comprehensive outline of investing in B4RN, take a look at our Share Prospectus by clicking here.

For full details of what it means to become a member of the B4RN Community Benefit Society you can read the society’s rules handbook by clicking here.

B4RN is registered under the FCA Mutuals Public Register, Company Registration Number 31352R (Our publicly filed Accounts and Annual Returns can be found here).

Apply

Should you wish to apply for shares you can:

Click here for an application form which you can download and print.

Alternatively, email info@b4rn.org.uk to request an application pack be mailed to you.

There are two sections – one for individuals (and partners) (A) and one for organisations (D).

You’ll need to fill out and sign the relevant form and send it to:
B4RN, Station Yard, Melling via Carnforth, Lancashire, LA6 2QY

Enterprise Investment Scheme

In January 2019, HMRC ruled Community Benefit Societies – like B4RN – were no longer eligible for the Enterprise Investment Scheme. Details can be found here.