Fan-owned football
in action...
About us
The Exeter City AFC Supporters' Trust is the majority shareholder of Exeter City Football Club, holding a 57.9% stake since 2003.
One of the longest-established supporter-owned clubs in English football, we have been shaping the future of Exeter City for over 24 years: not as investors or business interests, but as fans.
With around 5,700 members, the Trust is a fully democratic organisation. Every member has a vote. Every Trustee is elected. The Club belongs to the people who love it.
Exeter City FC
ownership since 2003
held by the Trust
to the Club
What we've contributed
Fan ownership isn't just symbolic - it means real, sustained investment in the Club.
Since 2000, the Trust has contributed approximately £2 million in direct donations to Exeter City FC, alongside over £65,000 raised through specific fundraising appeals and projects. On top of this, the value of volunteer time contributed by Trust members is estimated at around £250,000 per year - work that would otherwise simply not get done.
The Trust has also:
- Sponsored Exeter City Women's team and supported the Club's charitable arm, Exeter City Community Trust
- Contributed £6,250 to Heritage Lottery projects within the ground
- Sponsored the refurbishment of the Club's main hospitality suite
- Sponsored the Club's Academy during the 2019/20 season
- Supported the Sporting Memories initiative through ad-hoc contributions
How we're governed
The Trust operates as a Community Benefit Society (CBS) - a democratic, member-led organisation with no outside investors and no private profit motive.
Membership
Approximately 5,700 members elect the Trust Board through open elections.
The Trust Board
Typically comprises 12 elected Trustees, with up to 15 permitted (three places are usually reserved for co-opted specialist skills) plus four Officers. Trustees are elected for three-year terms and may serve a maximum of nine consecutive years. The Board reflects a wide range of skills, backgrounds, and ages.
Club representation
In 2014, a landmark agreement gave the Trust parity on the Exeter City FC Board of Directors. Three Trustees and the Trust Chairman currently sit on the Club Board - giving supporters genuine governance power, not just an advisory role.
This model of representation is rare in professional football. At most clubs, supporters have no formal voice. At Exeter City, they run it.
Our Partners
We work closely with a wider family of organisations committed to Exeter City and the local community:
Get involved
The Trust is only as strong as its membership. Whether you're a lifelong Grecians supporter or new to Exeter City, joining the Trust is the most direct way to have a say in the future of your football club.