A special way community benefit societies can raise money.
Expertly explained here: https://www.uk.coop/start-new-co-op/support/community-shares
Investors support a project for the common good, which they can get as close to as they want. - even joining the Board. Most are local, and they invest upwards from £100. We have a mix of three, four, and five figure investors.
Members get their money (capital) back over time or on request, and also get interest. Interest is at the discretion of the Board, paid if we are doing ok, at the rate given in the share offer document.