Case Study
Sky-Pin Drones Ltd
Business Overview
Sky-Pin Drones Ltd (“Sky-Pin”) is a private limited company, incorporated in November 2017, and wholly owned by James Braid. Based in Melrose, Scottish Borders, Sky-Pin specialises in aerial surveys and mapping services, offering 3D modelling, photography, and videography powered by advanced drone technology. With a primary focus on Scotland, the company caters to landowners and farmers, providing services such as plant and crop health mapping, peatland restoration mapping, and ecological and habitat management.
Business Requirement
To expand its service offerings, Sky-Pin aimed to invest in advanced drone technology designed for precision agricultural applications. The company planned to introduce new services, including agricultural drone spraying and seeding, as well as greenhouse shading and cleaning peatland and woodland seeding, and solar panel cleaning. The expansion required additional equipment and resources to enhance its operational capacity and meet the growing demand for innovative, drone-based solutions in the agricultural sector.
Securing the Business Loan from DSL Business Finance
James approached DSL Business Finance for support and successfully secured a loan of £48,000. With his extensive experience as a licensed drone pilot and over 250 hours of flying time, combined with his strategic business plan, James demonstrated his readiness to grow Sky-Pin into a full-time enterprise. The funding facilitated the purchase of the specialised drone and other necessary equipment, enabling the business to tap into new market opportunities and address the increasing demand for drone-based agricultural solutions.
Key Success Factors of Successful Loan Application
Several factors contributed to the successful loan application by Sky-Pin:
- Clear Growth Potential: The introduction of agricultural drone spraying, which is expected to receive regulatory approval for pesticides shortly, represents a transformative opportunity in the agriculture sector.
- Experience and Expertise: James’ qualifications, including Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) certification and comprehensive training, showcased his technical competence.
- Robust Business Plan: A comprehensive and forward-looking business plan outlined revenue potential, market opportunities, and operational strategies.
- Regulatory Compliance: By collaborating and operating under the Operating Safety Case (OSC) with Autospray Systems for regulatory oversight, James ensured compliance with the complex framework governing drone operations.
- Community Impact: The business contributes to the agricultural and ecological management sectors, with potential for future job creation.
James Braid, founder Sky-Pin Drones Ltd said,
“Running a small business with limited capital can be challenging, but South of Scotland Enterprise recommended DSL for small business financing—and they were absolutely right! The support I received from Lesley at DSL was exceptional. She took the time to truly understand my business and offered valuable advice on improving how I presented my data. Lesley kept me informed every step of the way throughout the application process. I couldn’t be more impressed with her dedication and expertise. I highly recommend DSL Business Finance to any small business seeking financial support.”
Iain Burnside, Chief Operating Officer, DSL Business Finance said:
“Sky-Pin Drones Ltd is a prime example of innovation in addressing agricultural challenges through cutting-edge technology. With its advanced drone-based solutions, the company is poised to transform agricultural practices, drive sustainability, and lead innovation in ecological and habitat management across Scotland. James Braid’s vision and dedication to expanding his business into new markets is truly admirable. DSL is proud to support businesses like Sky-Pin that combine expertise with a clear growth trajectory.”
The £48,000 loan from DSL Business Finance is part of the British Business Bank’s £150 million Investment Fund for Scotland (IFS), which was launched in October 2023. The fund offers loans ranging from £25,000 to £2 million, as well as equity investments up to £5 million. DSL Business Finance manages the Smaller Loan Fund, which provides loans from £25,000 to £100,000.
