As part of its strategic vision for digital transformation and financial empowerment, eNovate, a subsidiary of e-Finance Investment Group, has announced the launch of its first product under the Youth Banking as a Service (Y-BaaS) model, in partnership with Visa, a global leader in digital payments, and Arab Bank. The product, named “Rize”, was introduced at Helwan University, marking the university as the first in Egypt to implement this fully integrated digital banking ecosystem in collaboration with Arab Bank.
Rize is an innovative solution that combines a multi-purpose prepaid card with a mobile application designed specifically for young people within closed communities such as universities. The Rize card doubles as an official university ID — featuring the student’s name, photo, faculty, and ID number — while also serving as a secure and convenient payment method. This unique integration allows students to manage their daily expenses flexibly and safely, fostering financial awareness and independence in line with their aspirations.
Nashwa Kamel, CEO and Managing Director of eNovate, stated:
“Rize is not just a financial card or a smart app — it is a comprehensive strategic platform that embodies a forward-looking vision to build a generation more financially literate and better prepared to lead the digital economy. We believe that investing in youth is investing in the future. Through our Y-BaaS approach, we aim to equip young people with the tools and knowledge needed to achieve financial independence and contribute effectively to economic development. Launching Rize at Helwan University is just the beginning — it’s the starting point of a nationwide initiative with far-reaching impact.”
As part of the first phase, 64,000 Rize cards have been delivered to Helwan University and are currently being distributed across 22 faculties at the Helwan and Zamalek campuses — reflecting the scale and reach of the project within the university.
Rize provides a seamless financial experience that merges prepaid card functionality with an intelligent mobile app. Students can easily manage their finances through features such as expense tracking, ATM cash withdrawal and deposit, transfers via the IPN network, and peer-to-peer transfers between Rize cards. This integrated system enhances security and transparency while fostering a connected digital community linked directly to on-campus services.
Dr. Said Kandil, President of Helwan University, commented:
“We are delighted to partner with eNovate to bring this innovative solution to our campus. The Rize smart card marks a major step forward in digitising student services and significantly enhances the overall student experience by integrating financial tools that are practical and secure.”
From the financial partners’ side, Malak El Baba, General Manager of Visa Egypt, said:
“Launching modern and secure digital payment solutions like Rize is a crucial step toward integrating university students into the digital financial ecosystem. It reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and financial inclusion, helping young people gain access to smart banking tools and build a more sustainable financial future.”
Ahmed Ismail Hassan, Area and Branches Manager at Arab Bank – Egypt, added:
“Our collaboration with eNovate on Rize aligns perfectly with Arab Bank’s vision of supporting digital transformation and financial empowerment in Egypt. We are committed to enabling youth access to innovative digital solutions that help them manage their finances responsibly and become active participants in the digital economy. This initiative underscores our dedication to empowering the next generation and building a more inclusive and modern financial community.”
Ibrahim Sarhan, Chairman of e-Finance Investment Group, concluded:
“The launch of Rize reflects our group’s commitment to advancing digital transformation and promoting financial inclusion — particularly among youth. This project is a testament to our ongoing efforts to deliver intelligent, integrated solutions that support the digital lifestyle and meet the needs of the new generation within closed communities such as universities.”
Rize marks the first milestone in eNovate’s broader strategic roadmap to expand its youth-focused banking solutions across Egyptian universities, positioning the company as a key enabler of digital payments and financial technology innovation in Egypt and the region.
