Dubai - Sharikat Mubasher: The UAE-based fintech startup, Gainz, successfully closed a seven-figure dollar pre-seed investment round led by Antler MENAP, Lithium Holdings, and Eleventh Invest Inc

The funding, structured as a mix of equity and debt, saw participation from a diverse group of high-net-worth investors across the region, Gainz announced in a press release today.

This milestone represents a significant step towards reshaping a Shariah-compliant alternative financing for underserved small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the GCC.

Commenting on the investment, Romain Assuncao, Partner at Antler MENAP, 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.”

Gainz, founded in 2024 by Shehab Mokhtar and Sherif Abdelaty, targets democratizing SME financing across the GCC through AI-powered underwriting, Shariah-compliant structures, and investment opportunities for everyday investors. Focusing on financial inclusion, regulatory alignment, and technology-driven access, Gainz aims to become the region’s go-to platform for alternative credit.