Gainz, a UAE-based FinTech platform focused on alternative financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), has closed a 7-figure pre-seed funding round combining equity and debt.
The investment was led by Antler MENAP, Lithium Holdings, and Eleventh Invest Inc., alongside support from a number of high-net-worth individuals across the Middle East, according to a report from Wamda. The round reflects growing confidence in Gainz’s mission to bridge the $200bn+ financing gap for SMEs in the region.
Founded in December 2024 by Egyptian entrepreneurs Shehab Mokhtar and Sherif Abdelaty, Gainz aims to revolutionise working capital financing by offering Shariah-compliant funding solutions powered by AI underwriting and digital tools. The company is built around a crowdfunding model that allows everyday investors to contribute capital and receive attractive returns, starting from as little as $500.
The new funding will be used to scale the Gainz platform across the GCC, expand its reach to underserved SMEs, and enhance its technology infrastructure.
Antler MENAP partner Romain Assuncao said, “When the Gainz founding team joined our Riyadh-based cohort in October 2024 and as they successfully navigated our rigorous qualification, vetting, and assessment processes.
“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. As we watched them progress and shape their vision, we saw not only strong potential but also the capacity for real regional impact. At Antler, we are proud to be among their earliest backers and remain confident in their ability to build something truly transformative.”
Gainz co-founder and CEO Shehab Mokhtar said, “Investment facilitation and reshaping with special focus on individuals and busy professionals has always been a clear untapped opportunity. We’ve seen it, realised how big it can grow, and how we can transform this opportunity into a great financial inclusion and financial freedom cornerstone. This is when we decided to build Gainz.”
Sherif Abdelaty, co-founder and COO of Gainz, added, “While small and medium enterprises (SMEs) serve as the driving force behind economic growth across the MENA region, they continue to face significant challenges in accessing the financial resources necessary to scale. Traditional lending processes remain largely outdated and manual, often requiring between two to four months for loan approvals—delaying critical access to capital and limiting growth potential. Gainz is transforming this landscape by enabling companies to launch working capital financing campaigns within minutes.
“Through our streamlined digital platform, businesses can secure the funding they need within days, eliminating the inefficiencies of conventional fundraising and loan application procedures. This innovation empowers SMEs to focus on what matters most—growing and scaling their operations.”
Keep up with all the latest FinTech news here
Copyright © 2025 FinTech Global
