Chiltern Capital invests in Charis Grants

Charis Grants (“Charis”) is a market-leader in the distribution of financial support, products, and services to vulnerable households and community projects on behalf of private sector, public sector, and not-for-profit organisations.

Founded in 2003, Charis has continued to grow its positive social impact, with a broad offering that includes tailored Ofgem-approved schemes for the utility sector, outsourced management of dedicated social responsibility funds for corporate partners, and its e-commerce platform, Charis Shop, which assists with the procurement of products and services for people who need them most.

Charis will now move into its next phase of growth, building on the strong platform established by the existing senior management team. As part of the transaction, Jessica Taplin, an experienced leader in the charity and social impact sectors, will join as CEO, and Graham Cooke, previously CEO of leading energy consultancy Zenergi, will join as Chair.

Chiltern will play an active role in supporting Jessica, Graham and the existing team to continue delivering sector-leading outcomes and growing the social impact of Charis.

Jessica Taplin, Charis CEO, commented:

“I’m delighted to be joining Charis at such an important moment in its journey. The legacy of deep expertise, purpose and social impact is something we are committed to honouring and building upon. Our focus remains exactly where it should be: improving lives, delivering human and empathetic support, and working in close partnership with our clients.

I’m excited to be working with Graham Cooke and the exceptional Charis team, we are all thankful for the invaluable ongoing support from Chiltern - as we strive to enhance the positive, beneficial impact of the organisation.”

Ben Robinson, Director at Chiltern, commented:

“Charis is a standout provider of connecting and distributing funds and products to households that require them most. We are delighted to be supporting the team as they continue to expand the solutions offered, increasing the social impact and providing more support to those who need it. By investing in people, technology and providing the best possible service, Charis will be able to increase it’s reach and have a positive impact on people's lives”.

Allyson Broadhurst, exiting shareholder, commented:

“It has been a privilege to build a family-owned company dedicated to supporting some of the most vulnerable people in society. I am proud of the unique solutions we have developed, and the positive impact achieved over the years. I am confident the business will thrive under its new leadership, and I am pleased that Chiltern has ambitious plans for its future. My sincere thanks go to our clients, partners and the whole Charis team for their support.”

The sellers were advised by Forward Corporate Finance and Hegarty

Chiltern was advised by Capital Law (legal), RSM (financial), Baringa Management Consultancy (commercial) and Astley Advisors (technology)