Halal tech: how Muslim-friendly websites and apps blossomed in 2024

Chicago: Amany Killawi had a tough time when banks started dropping her crowdfunding platform, LaunchGood. After being told multiple times that they wouldn’t work with her, she felt like she was on the edge of losing everything. It was frustrating, especially when she realized that having a name like Muhammad could be a problem in the banking world.

So, what did she do? Instead of giving up, she and her co-founders decided to create their own payment solutions. They wanted to make sure that if one bank decided to cut ties, they wouldn’t be left high and dry. Fast forward a decade, and LaunchGood has helped raise nearly $700 million for various causes, especially during Ramadan when many Muslims donate to charity.

The challenges Killawi faced aren’t unique. The halal market is booming, worth about $2 trillion globally, but many Muslims still struggle to access financial services. This led Killawi to step back from LaunchGood and start PayGood, a payment processor aimed at helping Muslim businesses and charities without discrimination.

The recent events in Gaza have also shifted how Muslim-friendly businesses operate. Many are now focused on aligning with the values of their community, especially when it comes to ethical spending. Killawi noted that more people are looking to support businesses that reflect their beliefs, especially in light of the ongoing conflict.

New apps like Boycat are popping up, helping users find brands that align with their values, especially regarding the Palestinian cause. The app allows users to check if brands support Israeli actions and suggests alternatives. It’s all about making ethical shopping easier.

Meanwhile, Makani Homes, a platform for home swapping, started with the goal of providing Muslim-friendly options. They didn’t initially set out to be a pro-Palestinian alternative to Airbnb, but the timing worked out that way. As they expanded, they began to emphasize their commitment to ethical travel.

The landscape for Muslim-focused businesses is changing. Investors are starting to see the potential in these markets, and more support is emerging for pro-Palestinian initiatives. Killawi believes that now is the perfect time for Muslim entrepreneurs to step up and make their mark.

“Just start small,” she advises. “It’s worth taking a bet on this community.”