Cairo, May 21, 2025- CIB, Egypt’s leading private-sector bank, has partnered with Lantern Ventures, a venture studio that provides a comprehensive suite of services to empower SMEs.

This partnership aligns with CIB’s ongoing strategic direction to foster SME growth through tailored financial and non-financial solutions. Furthermore, it enables CIB to promote impactful investments that generate financial returns while providing positive social and environmental outcomes.

Lantern Ventures allows SMEs to navigate complex business landscapes by providing tailored financial solutions. These solutions include financial, legal services, human resources, commercial, information technology, and business development, designed to meet clients’ needs. The firm aims to foster growth, elevate operational efficiency, and mitigate risks.

Building on their core services, Lantern Ventures plays a significant role in supporting entrepreneurs who participated in Shark Tank Egypt. This entrepreneurial-themed reality show enhances entrepreneurs' business strategies and operational efficiencies, equipping them with the needed skills to thrive in a competitive environment.

Commenting on the transaction, Mr. Amr El-Ganainy, Deputy CEO & Executive Board Member at CIB, said, “We are pleased to partner with Lantern Ventures, as this partnership underscores our commitment to driving SME growth. CIB aims to unleash their full potential through providing tailored financial solutions and support.”

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.”

Mr. Hany El Dieb, Head of SMEs & Commercial Banking at CIB, said, “This partnership is a testament to our steadfast commitment to equipping SMEs with the tools and resources they need to compete in a competitive business landscape.”

Ahmed Tarek, Co-Founder of Lantern Ventures, said, “This partnership with CIB is a meaningful step for us, as it reflects our broader vision to empower startups by providing the tools and resources they need to grow and succeed. We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, and this collaboration is a strong step toward making that vision a reality.”

Mohamed Farouk, Chairman of Lantern Ventures, said, “At Lantern Ventures, we believe our role goes beyond investing in companies — we strive to be the gateway that connects startups and SMEs to accessible credit financing with favorable terms and competitive interest rates. 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.

The signing ceremony took place at CIB’s Head Office, in the presence of Mr. Amr El- Ganainy, Deputy CEO & Executive Board Member at CIB, Mr. Yasser Abdella, Deputy Chief Retail & Commercial Banking Executive at CIB, Mr. Hany El Dieb, Head of SMEs & Commercial Banking at CIB, Mr. Ahmed Tarek “Co-Founder of Lantern Ventures”, and Mr. Mohamed Farouk “Chairman of Lantern Ventures.”