Funding Bay/FBX Capital has reported a sharp rise in revenue and deal activity as more UK SMEs turn to alternative lenders for finance. The London-based debt advisory group says growing demand for flexible funding solutions has helped drive a 320% increase in revenue over the past financial year, alongside rapid team expansion and a strengthening of its leadership team.
Strong revenue growth and team expansion
Funding Bay/FBX Capital, a London firm, was founded in 2017 and helps small and medium-sized businesses secure funding through alternative channels. This sector has rapidly expanded in recent years due to high interest rates, inflationary pressures, and tighter bank lending rules.
Due to many UK SMEs choosing alternative lending solutions, Funding Bay/FBX Capital has reported a 320% revenue increase over the past financial year. The London-based finance debt advisory group has also grown its team by 70% in just six months, from 30 staff in December 2024 to 51 professionals by July 2025.
SMEs shift away from traditional bank lending
Due to more and more SMEs choosing alternative lending solutions, alternative and challenger lenders now account for around 60% of new SME lending. Funding Bay/FBX Capital have been reaping the benefits of this. They have completed 994 lending deals in 2024 worth over £140m and have already facilitated 717 transactions totalling more than £100m in the first half of 2025.
Deal volumes surge across key sectors
Many industries, like manufacturing, retail, technology, and hospitality, choose alternative lending solutions with deals ranging from £10,000 to £20m. Alex Fenton, partner at Funding Bay/FBX Capital, said “The challenging economic climate has meant SMEs are actively seeking support beyond traditional banking channels.”
Fenton has said that alternative lenders have also become a more popular option because they have loosened their lending criteria to offer more accessible and flexible funding solutions. “Funding Bay/FBX Capital’s growth directly reflects this market shift. We’re committed to helping companies secure the funding that they need to navigate these challenging times and capitalise on market opportunities,” Fenton said.
Leadership strengthened with new sales director appointment
Jack Rowe has joined Funding Bay/FBX Capital as the sales director. Rowe, previously commercial finance manager, has been with the business for more than two years and brings over a decade of sales experience. Rowe said: “I’m delighted to take on this new role during a strong period of growth for Funding Bay. The demand from businesses seeking alternative funding solutions has never been greater, and I’m pleased to be supporting the company’s mission to connect entrepreneurs with the capital they need to thrive.”
Closing Thoughts
With SMEs continuing to face pressure from high interest rates, inflation and tighter bank lending criteria, Funding Bay/FBX Capital’s latest growth figures highlight the increasing importance of alternative finance in the UK lending market. As demand for fast and flexible funding solutions continues to rise, the firm appears well-positioned to build on its recent momentum.
Read the full article on BusinessCloud: “Funding Bay/FBX Capital reports 320% revenue increase“
