Gainz Reimagines SME Financing with 7-Figure Pre-Seed Funding
Deal News | May 25, 2025 | Zawya
Gainz, a UAE-based fintech platform, has secured a seven-figure pre-seed investment round to transform SME financing across the GCC. The investment round, which was a combination of equity and debt, was led by Antler MENAP, Lithium Holdings, and Eleventh Invest Inc, along with other high-net-worth investors. With a focus on Shariah-compliant financing options, Gainz aims to address the $200 billion financing gap faced by SMEs in the region. Founded by Shehab Mokhtar and Sherif Abdelaty, Gainz offers AI-powered underwriting and investment opportunities for everyday investors, thereby promoting financial inclusion. Recognizing the inefficiencies inherent in traditional lending processes, Gainz is redefining how SMEs access working capital, allowing them to secure funding within days through digital platforms.
Sectors
- Financial Technology (Fintech)
- Alternative Finance
Geography
- Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – Gainz focuses on providing financial solutions to SMEs within the GCC, aiming to address the region's substantial financing gap.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) – As Gainz is based in the UAE, the country is a significant location for the company's operations and fundraising activities.
Industry
- Financial Technology (Fintech) – Gainz is a fintech platform focused on democratizing SME financing across the GCC through AI-powered underwriting and Shariah-compliant structures.
- Alternative Finance – The article discusses Gainz's approach to providing alternative financing solutions to underserved SMEs in the GCC, using innovative technology and investment platforms.
Financials
- 7-figure pre-seed – Total value of the pre-seed investment round closed by Gainz.
- $200B+ financing gap – The estimated financing gap for SMEs in the GCC that Gainz aims to address.
- $500 – The minimum investment threshold for investors using Gainz's platform.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gainz | Target Company | Company | A UAE-based fintech platform focused on SME financing through AI-driven and Shariah-compliant solutions. |
| Antler MENAP | Investor | Company | A leading investor in Gainz's pre-seed funding round. |
| Lithium Holdings | Investor | Company | Co-led the pre-seed round alongside Antler MENAP and other investors. |
| Eleventh Invest Inc | Investor | Company | Participated in the investment round providing capital to Gainz. |
| Shehab Mokhtar | Co-Founder & CEO | Person | Co-founder of Gainz, responsible for strategic direction and leadership. |
| Sherif Abdelaty | Co-Founder & COO | Person | Co-founder of Gainz, handling operations and corporate management. |