Community wealth building

Community wealth building is a radical approach to local economic development. It focuses on increasing the flow, circulation and democratic ownership of wealth so local economies generate real benefits for people — from better health to improved education and reduced poverty.

It rejects a ‘growth first’ model of public policy, instead prioritising strategies shaped around the needs and everyday lives of communities.

CLES pioneered community wealth building in the UK more than a decade ago. Working with councils like Preston, we helped harness the power of local institutions to build and steward wealth in ways that strengthen communities.

The approach has a demonstrable impact on the building blocks of health — the conditions in which we are born, live, learn and work. A Department of Health‑funded research study, conducted with academic partners, shows that community wealth building in Preston is improving the health and wellbeing of residents.

Today, community wealth building is a mainstream framework for local economic justice. CLES continues to support places across the UK and internationally, providing hands‑on advice, facilitated workshops and anchor networks, and national policy leadership for stronger, more resilient local economies.

Dozens of places across the UK are now developing community wealth building strategies.

Explore our practical case studies to see the art of the possible:

Fife Council – supporting SMEs through procurement

Greater Manchester Combined Authority – growing social economy business

Preston City Council – the original community wealth builder

ICAN – supporting local resident into NHS employment

Newham Council – social licensing and shaping markets in homecare

Salford Council and Dérive – municipal house building and community wealth

You can read more about Community Wealth Building,  here, or you can listen to our podcast series, here.