Alfanar Venture Philanthropy

About the organization

Alfanar Venture Philanthropy was founded in 2004 by Tarek Ben Halim, who transitioned from a successful career in investment banking to pursue his vision of strengthening civil society in the Arab world. Tarek believed in investing in innovative ideas and visionary leaders rather than offering traditional charitable handouts. His goal was to empower communities in the region's poorest areas to solve their own challenges sustainably. Alfanar’s unique approach combines financial grants with hands-on management expertise to support small grassroots organizations. Despite initial challenges in explaining this model to those accustomed to traditional philanthropy, Tarek was confident it would have a lasting impact on civil society in the Arab world, one organization at a time. The first investments were made in Egypt in 2005, supporting projects such as an environmental science center for children, a recycled paper production unit, and an association protecting child quarry workers. By 2010, Alfanar had supported eight grassroots organizations in Egypt, positively impacting the lives of over 4,000 individuals. After Tarek’s untimely death in 2009 from a brain tumor, Alfanar’s board and staff remained committed to his vision. Over the past 15 years, the organization has expanded its impact to Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan. It now strategically invests in initiatives that economically empower women, youth, and refugees; improve children’s education; and address climate change's social and environmental challenges. In 2024, Alfanar celebrated 20 years of driving social change through enterprise. The organization has impacted over 400,000 lives, supported 98 social enterprises, and provided training and management support to help them achieve an average cost recovery rate of 66%. With every enterprise it supports, Alfanar builds a sustainable ecosystem to uplift disadvantaged communities across the Arab world.