Mastercard Launches Campaign to Support SMBs, 50 Years of NYC Marathons

Mastercard is celebrating the 50^th anniversary of the TCS New York City Marathon, and is honoring the small businesses that have kept the city running for 50 years, according to a press release emailed to PYMNTS on Thursday (Nov. 4).

The Official Payment Services Provider of New York Road Runners, Mastercard will introduce its “50 Years and Running” campaign at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, in partnership with documentary filmmaker and NYC small business recruiter Nick Heller. The campaign will celebrate and honor the small businesses that have kept New York City running for 50 years.

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“The issues facing small businesses have changed radically in the 50 years since the TCS New York City Marathon began, and the impacts of the pandemic have only amplified and evolved these challenges,” said Heller. “Running a business takes the same dedication, hard work and grit it takes to run a marathon. We’re proud to pay tribute to the small business owners – from Brooklyn to the Bronx – who exemplify what makes this city one of the greatest in the world.”

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The campaign spotlights three iconic small businesses located close to the marathon route that have persevered despite obstacles. These include Grandma’s Place, a children’s toy and bookstore; Davey’s Ice Cream in Brooklyn, run by David Yoo; and Bronx Native, a cultural hub for creators, artists and entrepreneurs.

Mastercard will further support the small businesses featured in the campaign with a Digital Doors™ toolkit, which has exclusive offerings and resources to help them make the most of their online presence and secure their digital operations. The efforts align with Mastercard’s aim for financial inclusion and its mission to bring 50 million micro and small businesses into the digital economy by 2025.

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“The ’50 Years and Running’ Priceless campaign reflects Mastercard’s ongoing commitment to supporting and elevating the small businesses that serve as the backbone of our communities,” said Cheryl Guerin, executive vice president, North America marketing and communications at Mastercard. “We’re thrilled to be celebrating and showcasing the extraordinary small businesses that keep New York City running and provide them with the digital tools and resources they deserve to thrive.”