THE north's largest social finance lender paid out £12 million in loans last year, the latest figures show.
The Ulster Community Investment Trust (UCIT) has revealed record levels of lending to community organisations, charities, social enterprises and small businesses in 2018.
One of the organisations to benefit from UCIT funding was the Ortus Group, which was supported on this occasion with funding to create a soft multi-level play area at Dairy Farm Shopping Centre in west Belfast.
The new 'Roar and Explore' facility created 14 new jobs and all profits from the social enterprise are reinvested back into the area and community.
The lender, founded in 2001, also launched dedicated funds for the sports and childcare sectors in a busy 2018.
Harry McDaid, CEO of UCIT said they are proud to have had a positive social and economic impact on communities in the north.
"As our loan book grows, so does our impact, with increasing numbers of people benefiting from enhanced facilities, additional services and new opportunities," he said.
“Despite the challenging and uncertain economic and political outlook, our results reflect the continuing confidence of charities and community organisations to undertake new initiatives geared to the provision of social need."
"Early activity in the current year shows no sign of slowing down and we’re planning to launch a dedicated fund geared to the needs of the Rural Community and one aimed at Faith-Based organisations," Mr McDaid added.
Since its inception, UCIT, which is a registered charity, has provided loan commitments aggregating £90m to over 500 organisations from a wide range of sectors including the arts, childcare, social care, community regeneration, faith and sports.
The UCIT Group also manages the Northern Ireland Small Business Loan Fund on behalf of Invest NI.
