•Flow48, the UAE-based fintech startup founded in 2022 by Idriss Al Rifai, has successfully raised $25 million in pre-Series A funding. 

•The startup’s real-time platform integrates seamlessly with major ERP providers, payment gateways, and e-commerce platforms, offering a precise and efficient credit assessment process. 

•Expansion into South Africa: The new funding will accelerate Flow48’s expansion plans.

The UAE-based fintech disruptor, Flow48, announced it raised a substantial $25 million in pre-Series A funding, according to a company statement.

The funding round, a strategic blend of equity and debt, was backed by a consortium of distinguished investors, including Speedinvest, Daphni, 212, Blockchain Founders Fund, Unpopular Ventures, Endeavor Catalyst, TLG, and notable angel investor Scott Sandell from NEA.

Founded in 2022 by entrepreneur Idriss Al Rifai, Flow48’s mission to redefine the landscape of SME lending took a significant leap forward with this funding milestone. 

The company, spearheaded by Al Rifai, is not just a financial disruptor but an essential catalyst for SME growth in the dynamic economic environment of the region. 

Enrique Martinez Hausmann, Principal at Speedinvest, remarked on the transformative potential, envisioning Flow48 evolving into a comprehensive fintech solution for SMEs, expanding beyond revenue-based Based Financing to include insurance, payments, and other financial services.

Founded on the principle of addressing the working capital challenges faced by SMEs, Flow48 boasts a state-of-the-art platform with real-time functionality. It seamlessly integrates with major ERP providers, payment gateways, and e-commerce platforms, setting new standards in SME lending. 

The platform’s proprietary risk engine, enriched with data from diverse sources, enables a precise and efficient credit assessment process.

A unique aspect of Flow48’s model lies in its unwavering commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. 

The startup actively empowers underrepresented segments within the SME sector, prioritizing funding for SMEs owned by minorities and women. Idriss Al Rifai emphasized the importance of bridging the financing gap, stating, “What we offer can be vital for these small business owners, contributing to building a more equitable economic environment.”

 With a focus on empowering SMEs across emerging markets globally, Flow48 strategically eyes South Africa for expansion. 

This move is not merely geographical but a deliberate step to integrate into thriving fintech ecosystems. 

Shabir Vasram from Daphni emphasized the transformative impact of Flow48’s approach in emerging markets, highlighting the crucial need for a data-driven approach in challenging financing contexts.

Reflecting the enthusiasm of investors, Numan Numan, Founding Partner at 212, commended Flow48 for its innovative approach to addressing the SME financing gap. 

Flow48‘s recent funding success and expansion plans underscore its dedication to redefining the B2B lending space with a sharp focus on ESG principles.