How to Raise Capital for Expansion Without Diluting Ownership

In a competitive and capital-intensive business environment, UK companies seeking to expand are often faced with a critical question: how can we fund our growth without giving up equity? At Cogency Corporate Finance, we help businesses nationwide — including in Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire — secure non-dilutive finance that supports their ambitions while preserving ownership.

Whether you’re a manufacturer in Cumbria, a tech business in Manchester, or a logistics firm expanding in Cheshire, non-dilutive funding can provide a vital pathway to scale without selling shares. Our role is to identify the best funding options and guide you through the process to a successful outcome.

Non-dilutive finance refers to funding that does not require you to give away equity in your business. It enables growth while retaining control and future upside. Common forms include:

• Debt finance – Loans, overdrafts, and revolving credit facilities.

• Asset-based lending – Including invoice finance, equipment finance, and stock finance.

• Government grants and incentives – Non-repayable funds for specific projects or sectors.

• Tax reliefs – Such as R&D tax credits, capital allowances, and innovation grants.

At Cogency CF, we structure finance solutions that suit your business model, cash flow, sector, and long-term strategy — ensuring cost efficiency and sustainability.

The UK government provides a variety of non-dilutive finance schemes to support business growth, innovation, and productivity.

The British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme supports SMEs by facilitating access to loans from approved lenders with a government-backed guarantee. This can make lenders more willing to provide funding on favourable terms.

Visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/growth-guarantee-scheme

R&D tax relief allows businesses investing in innovation to reduce their Corporation Tax bill or claim a payable tax credit. This is especially valuable for technology, engineering, and manufacturing companies.

Details: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/corporation-tax-research-and-development-tax-relief-for-small-and-medium-sized-enterprises

Claim tax relief on capital expenditure for equipment, machinery, and certain building improvements through the Capital Allowances scheme. This reduces your tax burden and frees up cash for reinvestment.

More info: https://www.gov.uk/capital-allowances

Innovate UK supports businesses across all sectors working on commercially viable innovation projects. It offers both innovation loans and non-repayable grants.

Apply here: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/innovate-uk

Use this GOV.UK tool to search for grants relevant to your industry, location, and project stage.

Visit: https://www.find-government-grants.service.gov.uk

At Cogency Corporate Finance, we assist our clients with:

• Assessing capital needs and financial readiness

• Identifying the most appropriate funding instruments

• Structuring proposals for lenders and grant bodies

• Preparing forecasts, business plans, and supporting documentation

• Negotiating loan terms and managing execution

• Integrating funding into broader growth and corporate strategy

We take a strategic approach that considers your sector, timeline, and ownership objectives. Whether you are building a new facility, entering international markets, investing in technology, or pursuing an acquisition, we can help you access the capital you need — without giving up control.

Non-dilutive capital may be the right choice if you:

• Want to retain 100% ownership

• Are scaling an already profitable business

• Have significant fixed assets or receivables

• Operate in an innovation-driven sector eligible for tax credits

• Are looking to preserve valuation for future equity rounds

It may also serve as a bridge to a future equity raise at a higher valuation.

Cogency Corporate Finance offers independent, partner-led financial advice and execution support. We work with clients throughout the UK and bring particular insight into the business landscape of Greater Manchester, Cheshire, Merseyside and Lancashire.

• Decades of experience in corporate finance

• Access to mainstream and specialist funders

• Sector-specific knowledge in Technology, Facilities management & personnel services, manufacturing, wholesale distribution, engineering, real estate, and professional services

• Strategic, not transactional — we build long-term relationships

Our contact page is the first step to booking a consultation and exploring your funding options.

Ready to finance your next phase of growth without giving up ownership? Visit www.cogencycf.com to learn more about how we support businesses like yours. You can also contact us directly for an initial conversation about your funding strategy.