I agree with all that about the Honor Oak.

I don't know the Ivy House at all but from what I can tell from their website, their success must be due to the fact that they've got someone who really knows what's needed - and how to do it: two very different things. (BTW, that much-needed person is NOT me, just in case you thought I was pitching for the job!!!) It's the only way you can get an actual business plan put together (as opposed to a 'wish list' for a nice pub).

Someone also really knew the whole grants and finance thing.

I'm curious: does anyone know how much money they raised from co-op members? The vast bulk of the money appears to have been borrowed or begged.