Mastercard Strive

Mastercard Strive is a philanthropic initiative of the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, supported by the Mastercard Impact Fund, equipping small businesses with digital tools, capital, and expert networks. Since 2021, it has reached over 19 million small businesses across more than 30 countries. Its Innovation Fund awards grants to early-stage solutions: nearly $2 million globally in 2023, up to €500,000 each to 10 EU winners in 2024, and $1 million in the US in 2025, up to $250,000 per organization. Winners include Mona, Zult Impact, Vested Impact and Cresco. Strive backs digital and data-first solutions that help small businesses access capital, go digital safely, adopt AI and pursue sustainability, open to startups and established organizations alike. Winners also receive mentorship, technical assistance, and networking. Strive USA partners with ecosystem organizations such as Community Reinvestment Fund, USA. ▪ Which types of small businesses will the Mastercard Strive programs support and why? Strive works with organizations that support businesses that have fewer than 10 employees, are on the path to digitalization and formalization, and have a high propensity for growth. Businesses of this size are vital engines of economic development. They create 23% of jobs globally, contribute significantly to GDP, and spark innovative technologies and business models. These small firms create employment opportunities across broad sectors and geographic areas, and for marginalized segments of the labor force such as the poor, young, older, low-skilled, and women workers. They also provide access to basic goods and services to underserved populations, bridging critical gaps in vocational and formal education, healthcare, water and sanitation, food production, energy, and financial services. Despite all of this, small businesses are often overlooked and struggle to access the critical tools and services they need. The world needs small businesses to thrive so that they can realize their full potential to drive growth that is truly inclusive, sustainable, and self-reinforcing. ▪ What kinds of programs will Mastercard Strive fund? Strive is built on the recognition that digital transformation has enabled new ways of supporting small businesses. Our digital and data-first approach reflects the broader shift in what is possible and an immediate shift in what is necessary to promote the resilience and growth of small firms, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. We seek out truly innovative solutions that help small businesses to save time and make more money, and look for grantees who responsibly leverage data and insights to better meet the needs of small businesses.