Alfanar

is a risk worth taking

More than two decades ago, Alfanar pioneered a new way of investing in the Arab region. Moving away from short-term aid, we opted for long-term backing of the organisations driving change in their communities. Since 2004, we have stood behind more than 224 local organisations across Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and Palestine – because we believe those closest to a challenge are the ones who can solve it. We provide funding, training, strategic guidance and the connections that turn a promising organisation into a lasting one. In doing so, we work alongside organisations transforming access to education, employment and income-generation for women, young people and children across the Arab region.

2004

Foundations – A Risk Worth Taking

Arab Learning Initiative is launched in the UK by Tarek Ben Halim as the first venture philanthropy organisation for the Arab World.

Foundations – A Risk Worth Taking

VISION

"An Arab region where every child, young person and woman has access to the education and opportunity they need to shape their own futures – because lasting change grows from within communities, not from outside them."

Funding philosophy

Putting Resources Where Values Are Met

We believe the future of the Arab region should be shaped by those who know it best – a belief that is reflected in our team, our partnerships and the organisations we support.

We challenge assumptions, have difficult conversations, and back the people and ideas with potential to create transformative change.

We bring together the people, partners and ideas that move our region forward because the right connections unlock creativity and possibility.

We earn trust by holding ourselves to a high standard – measuring what matters, sharing what we learn, and continuously refining our approach based on evidence, reflection and feedback.

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