Why DroneWorks Chose a Finance Broker Over an Online Platform

Meet DroneWorks

DroneWorks is a UK-based business that delivers high-precision drone data for industries like construction, surveying, and land planning. Their reputation is built on accuracy, efficiency, and high-spec tech tools that allow them to gather data quickly and reliably in complex environments. 

As the business grew, so did the scale of opportunities. Demand was rising for precision drone data, but to take on larger, higher value contracts, they needed to invest in high-end LiDAR drone equipment from the United States.  

The tech came with a high upfront cost – and dipping into cash reserves would’ve stalled the very growth they were trying to unlock. 

The Challenge: Scaling Without Financial Pressure

Jason, Director of DroneWorks, had done his research. He knew the equipment he needed, an investment that would put them in direct competition with much larger competitors. But while the opportunity was clear, the upfront cost posed a major challenge. 

We knew what we needed to grow but couldn’t afford to tie up our working capital

The Solution: A Business Loan Built Around the Business

James Murray Finance arranged a tailored business loan under the Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) – the predecessor to the Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS). This allowed DroneWorks to finance the imported drone without the delays or red tape often associated with tech purchases from abroad. It also ensured DroneWorks could act quickly on the opportunity without compromising other areas of the business. 

Key wins included:

• Fast approval for international equipment funding 
• Competitive rates vs online platforms 
• No broker fee, and clear objective guidance 
• Cash flow preserved – growth accelerated 

Thanks to this funding, DroneWorks acquired the drone, expanded service capabilities, and opened doors to new clients in larger sectors. 

The Result: Game-Changing Equipment to Service Bigger and Higher-Value Contracts

With funding in place, the new LiDAR drone was purchased and integrated into DroneWorks’ operations.  

Jason puts it simply: 

James has become an extension of my team. He fully understood our needs and offered the right, affordable finance solutions for both equipment and vehicles – saving us money. He’s transparent, fast, and focussed on delivering real value. If you’re a business looking to grow, James is the guy you want on your side.

The finance didn’t just help them buy a drone – it helped them take a confident step forward as a business. And by working with a broker who acted more like a partner than a salesperson, the process was transparent and fast from start to finish. 

You can see what DroneWorks are up to now at www.drone-works.uk and  watch their full video story here. 

Why We Chose the Recovery Loan Scheme

The Recovery Loan Scheme (RLS) was the ideal choice for DroneWorks because it’s designed to help UK businesses grow, even when traditional funding routes are limited. Although now replaced by the Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS), the core aim remains the same.  

Despite DroneWorks’ profitability and momentum, their short trading history and the complexity of importing specialist LiDAR equipment made asset finance and mainstream loans less viable.  

RLS allowed us to secure cost-effective funding with a repayment profile suited the business. It backed their growth while supporting innovation in the UK economy... Exactly what the scheme was built for. 

What This Shows About Business Finance

The DroneWorks story is a great example of how finance, when done right, can be a tool for progress, not a burden. With the right support, businesses can: 

• Access specialist or imported equipment 
• Preserve working capital while investing in growth 
• Avoid unnecessary fees or restrictive terms 
• Get clear, objective advice – not just a sales pitch 

James Murray Finance can help UK SMEs to secure the right type of finance for your business. No jargon. No hard sell. Just clear advice and tailored funding solutions.