Community wealth building

In 2024 we began developing a funding programme to support community wealth building, knowing the learning would support our strategic move towards a place-based way of working, and resourcing youth spaces.
In each of our three places, we want to work alongside young people to develop and resource physical spaces that can become dedicated hubs for young changemakers.

These will be places where young people can dream together, build together, and lead lasting change in their communities and beyond. Over time, these buildings will become community-owned and community-led, remaining local assets for generations to come.

In London, we're developing an exciting partnership with Barking & Dagenham Giving and Good Ancestor Movement to develop a creative hub in Barking.

Community wealth building is a place-based approach to economic development that focuses on keeping wealth within communities and using it to deliver shared, long-term benefit. It is about creating a resilient and inclusive economy for the benefit of the local area, and emphasises democratic ownership, the development of shared community assets such as buildings and spaces, and inclusive participation.
Blagrave's definition

Key principles of Community Wealth Building

Fostering local, socially-oriented enterprises – such as worker co-operatives, community land trusts, and municipal enterprises – rather than relying on external corporations. 

Increasing the flow of investment within local economies by supporting local financial institutions such as credit unions and community banks to recirculate wealth. 

Using large local employers ("anchor institutions") to provide decent, living-wage jobs, improve worker welfare, and create opportunities for local residents. 

Utilising the purchasing power of anchor institutions (like councils, universities and hospitals) to build local supply chains – keeping spending within the local economy. 

Managing land and property assets to maximise social and economic value for local communities, rather than solely for speculative financial gain.

Research

Mapping community asset development

The Ubele Initiative was commissioned by Blagrave to map the field of community asset development in England in late 2025. Read more here. 

The work focused on building a better understanding of the infrastructure that supports community-led development of physical assets, such as land and buildings.

For the results, explore Ubele's community asset mapping microsite or read the full report.