Egyptian startup Card-Y is preparing to unveil a new design for its digital platform on January 16, marking a significant milestone on its roadmap towards a full official launch in the second quarter of 2026. The company is strategically focused on building a mature, value-tested product before pursuing large-scale market expansion.
The announcement will coincide with the opening of user subscriptions, a move designed to build a user experience based on actual usage and tangible value for freelancers. This approach deliberately avoids traditional launch models that often prioritize rapid growth over deep, practical product validation.
Gaining Significant Pre-Launch Traction
Demonstrating strong market demand, Card-Y revealed that over 900 users have already subscribed to its monthly plans ahead of the official launch. This early adoption signals a genuine need for a new model to address the persistent challenges faced by independent workers in Egypt, with a clear plan for subsequent expansion across the Middle East and Africa.
The platform has also garnered positive and tangible interest from government entities and investors, as its model aligns with national directives to support the freelance economy, attract foreign currency, and empower the digital ecosystem.
Building an Integrated Freelancer Ecosystem
Card-Y’s model aims to redefine the freelancing experience by offering an integrated subscription-based solution that goes far beyond simple payment processing. The platform provides a professional and legal framework that offers freelancers a level of stability comparable to traditional employment while preserving the flexibility of independent work.
The comprehensive suite of services includes specialized local and international financial solutions, simplified legal and tax compliance, and access to health and social insurance. Furthermore, the platform plans to offer an Islamic-compliant credit line, fully equipped co-working spaces, and a vibrant professional community to foster growth and combat professional isolation.
Fueling Growth with Strategic Partnerships and Funding
Throughout January, Card-Y will announce a series of strategic partnerships with local and global service providers to ensure the delivery of reliable and robust solutions for its users. These collaborations are key to strengthening the platform’s readiness for its full-scale launch.
Driven by the strong momentum from early subscriptions and investor interest, the company also intends to announce its latest funding round by the end of January. The capital will be used to support operational expansion, accelerate platform development, and ensure it is prepared to serve a broader user base efficiently and sustainably upon its official launch in 2026.
Harvey Gamal, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Card-Y, stated that the company is executing a deliberate plan to build a sustainable platform that truly serves freelancers. “The strong engagement with early subscriptions and strategic partnerships reflects a real market need for solutions that go beyond just receiving payments,” Gamal explained. “Through this phase, Card-Y is establishing a solid foundation before the official launch, ensuring we deliver a reliable and scalable experience that aligns with the state’s direction to support freelancing and empower youth.”
About Card-Y
Card-Y is an Egyptian fintech startup building a comprehensive platform designed to support and empower freelancers. By integrating financial, legal, professional, and social services into a single subscription model, Card-Y aims to transform freelancing from a temporary solution into a sustainable and secure career path that aligns with the demands of the modern digital economy.
Source: Fintech Gate
