David Cameron unveils Big Society bank to help savers invest in good causes Big Society Capital is going to encourage charities and social enterprises to prove their business models - and then replicate them. Once they've proved that success in one area they'll be able to seek investment for expansion into the wider region and into the country. This is a self-sustaining, independent market that's going to help build the Big Society. Nick Hurd, minister for civil society, said savers would be able to guarantee their money was being used for good causes. "The social investment market is embryonic but it is real and we intend to grow it," he said. As a result, savers in this country will have more opportunities to invest for good and back charities, social enterprises and community groups who want to make a positive difference. The bank will be run independently of the Government, chaired by Sir Ronald Cohen, a private equity boss and major Labour donor under Tony Blair. It will give cheap loans, rather than grants, to make sure the money is spread among a large number of projects. "What we've done for business entrepreneurs we must now do for social entrepreneurs," Sir Ronald said. As well as funding traditional charities, the bank will give money to social projects, such as playgroups, credit unions and residents" groups trying to take control of their post office, local shop or library. The move is part of Mr Cameron's vision of a "big society," giving people more responsibility for their communities and for running public services. The Prime Minister has described it as his "mission in politics" and something he "fights for it every day." The launch of a bank will go some way towards dispelling criticism that the concept of a "big society" is simply a cover for deep cuts in public services. Mr Hurd has challenged the "knockers" and "rock chuckers," saying the big society can already point to some real successes." Money from dormant bank accounts has already been spend on helping unemployed people set up their own businesses and funding housing in deprived areas.