Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are rapidly digitizing—and the adoption of digital solutions has been essential in this process. According to a new Mastercard study, 91% of Brazilian SMEs that use digital payment solutions report significant business growth, reinforcing the strategic role of digitalization.
The study, which interviewed 150 owners and directors of SMEs in Brazil as part of a regional survey in 14 countries, reveals that 92% of Brazilian SMEs that accept digital payments consider them essential or very important to their operations. The data also indicates that digitalization is not just a competitive advantage—it's a necessity: 64% claim that their businesses would not exist without accepting digital payments.
"Digital payments are redefining how SMEs operate, grow, and connect with customers and suppliers. This study shows that digital acceptance goes beyond convenience—it's vital to business sustainability," says Marcelo Tangioni, president of Mastercard Brazil.
Key insights from the study include:
- Operational efficiency: 95% of SMEs that use digital payment methods say that the method saves time and money.
- Repressed demand: among those who have not yet adopted digital acceptance, 86% are interested in implementing the solution, and 57% say they lose customers monthly due to not offering this option.
- Digitalization of B2B relationships: 88% of SMEs use electronic payments to pay suppliers, with 60% having international suppliers.
- More than payment: 99% of companies that use digital payment solutions are aware of the additional services offered by their providers — such as credit facilitation (used by 51%), fraud monitoring (48%) and cybersecurity (45%).
What do SMEs look for in a digital payment solutions provider?
The characteristics most valued by entrepreneurs are:
- Security (94%)
- Ability to handle multiple payment methods (94%)
- Customer service (92%)
- Reliability (90%) — reinforcing the importance of trust in the solutions offered.
"Mastercard has consistently worked to support the digitalization of SMEs in Latin America, with initiatives that combine technology, innovation, and financial inclusion—fundamental pillars for the sustainable development of small businesses," emphasizes Marcelo Tangioni. In this context, Mastercard has invested in specific solutions that address the real challenges faced by Brazilian SMEs, such as:
- Tap on Phone: transforms smartphones into payment terminals, allowing small retailers to accept contactless cards and digital wallets in a simple, accessible, and secure way — an innovative solution that reduces barriers to entry and expands digital inclusion.
- Click to Pay: An online payment solution that eliminates data entry for each purchase, offering a more seamless checkout experience, directly impacting sales conversions and end-consumer confidence. With just one click, the purchase is complete—a streamlined journey that reduces average checkout time by up to 50%.
- Mastercard Surprise Companies: A loyalty program geared toward entrepreneurs, with benefits and partnerships that support digitalization and day-to-day business operations, including Docusign, NordVPN, and Spedy. This initiative reinforces Mastercard's commitment to innovation tailored to the needs of SMEs.
