Advice

Choosing the right legal structure is a critical decision for any organisation embarking on a collaborative venture. Whether you’re forming a research partnership, coordinating regional services, or pooling procurement resources, the UK Economic Interest Grouping (UKEIG) offers a flexible model for cooperation without the need to set up a company or partnership.

But is a UKEIG the right choice for your specific project? This post explores the scenarios where a UKEIG makes the most sense, the benefits it provides, and the considerations to keep in mind before proceeding.

What is a UKEIG?

A UKEIG is a legal entity that allows two or more organisations or individuals to work together on a joint economic activity. Unlike a company, the UKEIG is not designed to make a profit for itself. Its role is to facilitate and support the economic activities of its members.

UKEIGs were introduced in the UK following Brexit as a replacement for European Economic Interest Groupings (EEIGs). While no longer governed by EU law, UKEIGs retain many of the same core principles, including shared liability, fiscal transparency, and member-driven governance.

When is a UKEIG Suitable?

A UKEIG is most appropriate when:

• You want to collaborate on an economic