• CIB partners with Lantern Ventures to offer SMEs tailored financial and strategic support.
• Lantern Ventures brings services that help startups grow and navigate complex business challenges.
• The partnership aims to unlock SME potential and drive Egypt’s sustainable economic growth.
  

Egypt’s SME scene is getting a new boost.

CIB

Commercial International Bank (CIB), Egypt’s private sector bank, is partnering with Lantern Ventures, a venture studio. Together, they aim to foster SME growth through tailored financial and non financial solutions. 

Mr. Yasser Abdella, Deputy Chief Retail & Commercial Banking Executive at CIB, said, “CIB recognizes how SMEs positively contribute to Egypt’s economic growth. This partnership aims to provide SMEs with financial and strategic support, accelerating long-term sustainable growth.”

The goal? To arm small and medium businesses with more than just money,real tools to grow and thrive.

Lantern Ventures

Beyond Funding Lantern Ventures offers practical support including legal advice, HR, IT solutions, and business development. This helps SMEs improve efficiency and manage risks. Lantern is also known for backing entrepreneurs from Shark Tank Egypt, helping them sharpen their business skills.

From Lantern Ventures’ side, the goal is to build stronger ties between banks and startups by offering accessible credit with fair terms. In addition, it aims to ensure funding is used effectively to support sustainable growth.

Mohamed Farouk, Chairman of Lantern Ventures, said, “Through this initiative, our aim is to rebuild trust between the banking sector and small businesses by acting as a strategic oversight partner, ensuring optimal utilization of funding to support the growth and sustainability of the companies within our portfolio.”

Bottom line: With this partnership, both entities aim to give Egyptian SMEs a serious boost in the competitive business landscape. It is  not just about capital, instead it is about smart growth, sustainability, and long-term success.