UAE FinTech Gainz Secures 7-Figure Pre-Seed Funding to Revolutionize SME Lending
Gainz, a promising FinTech platform based in the UAE, is at the forefront of alternative financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Recently, the platform successfully closed a significant 7-figure pre-seed funding round, which combines both equity and debt. This investment marks a pivotal moment for Gainz, reflecting the increasing confidence in its mission to address the over $200 billion financing gap faced by SMEs in the Middle East.
About Gainz: Revolutionizing SME Financing
Founded in December 2024 by Egyptian entrepreneurs Shehab Mokhtar and Sherif Abdelaty, Gainz is dedicated to transforming working capital financing. The platform offers Shariah-compliant funding solutions that leverage advanced AI underwriting and digital tools, making it easier for SMEs to access the capital they need.
Funding Details
The recent funding round was led by notable investors including Antler MENAP, Lithium Holdings, and Eleventh Invest Inc., along with contributions from various high-net-worth individuals throughout the region. According to a report from Wamda, this investment will enable Gainz to:
- Expand its platform across the GCC region
- Reach underserved SMEs
- Enhance its technology infrastructure
Key Insights from Investors
Romain Assuncao, a partner at Antler MENAP, expressed strong confidence in Gainz’s potential. He noted, “From the outset, it was clear they were a standout team—highly aligned, mission-driven, and committed to solving a critical challenge for SMEs across the MENA region.”
Assuncao also highlighted the unique qualities of Gainz’s founding team, stating that their rigorous qualification and assessment processes showcased their strong potential for regional impact.
A Vision for Financial Inclusion
Gainz co-founder and CEO, Shehab Mokhtar, emphasized the importance of investment facilitation for busy professionals, identifying it as a significant untapped opportunity. “We realized how big it can grow and how we can transform this opportunity into a cornerstone for financial inclusion and freedom,” he stated.
Co-founder and COO Sherif Abdelaty further elaborated on the challenges faced by SMEs in accessing financial resources. Traditional lending processes are often outdated, requiring lengthy approval times that can hinder growth. Gainz aims to eliminate these inefficiencies, allowing businesses to launch working capital financing campaigns within minutes.
Through its innovative digital platform, Gainz enables companies to secure the funding they need within days, empowering them to focus on scaling their operations without the delays associated with conventional fundraising methods.
Conclusion
As Gainz continues to grow and innovate in the FinTech sector, it stands as a beacon of hope for SMEs in the MENA region, providing essential financial resources and fostering economic development. For more information about Gainz and its offerings, visit their official website or check out related articles on Wamda.
