Charis Grants

Forward Corporate Finance is delighted to have advised the family shareholders of Peterborough-based, Charis Grants (“Charis”) on the sale of the business to Chiltern Capital (“Chiltern”).
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, the business was acquired by Allyson Broadhurst in 2011 and since then it has evolved and expanded its scope, services and social impact. From its roots in supporting the energy sector delivering tailored Ofgem-approved schemes, the Company has extended its services to local authorities, housing associations, charities and corporations, offering them a range of services enabling them to support the most vulnerable in society. Through Charis, organisations can distribute an ever expanding array of support such as vouchers, household appliances, furniture, winter warmth bundles, even home retrofit services. And this can be part of a bespoke managed service or self-serve through the Charis Shop.

Forward ran a competitive process to seek the right home, with interest from trade buyers, search funds and private equity. Chiltern impressed from the start with the speed of their response and willingness to work with the Company on the transition away from family ownership. As part of their process, 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.