EEMEA SMEs are rethinking growth as cybersecurity, AI and digital payments gain ground
Small and medium-sized businesses across Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EEMEA) are increasingly turning to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital payment technologies as they prepare for growth, according to a new Mastercard report.
The Dreamonomics report shows that 78% of SMEs in the EEMEA region consider protection against cyber threats a priority, while 42% already use cybersecurity tools. That is the highest adoption rate recorded among the regions surveyed.
The findings point to a shift in how businesses in the region are approaching growth, with technology and security becoming increasingly linked to their ability to expand while managing risk.
Despite the appetite for growth, stability remains important. About 59% of EEMEA SMEs said they prioritise stability and predictability over rapid growth, compared with 70% of SMEs globally.
At the same time, more than half of businesses surveyed in the region, 54%, said they would prefer to develop deeper relationships with customers rather than focus on reaching the largest possible customer base.
Artificial intelligence is also gaining traction among EEMEA SMEs. Some 77% said they are excited about the potential of AI, compared with 70% globally. Fraud and security protection emerged as a particularly strong area of interest, with 49% of EEMEA SMEs identifying it as a potential use for AI, against 41% globally.
The report also places EEMEA businesses among the regions showing greater interest in emerging payment technologies. SMEs in the region are more likely to use newer payment methods, including cryptocurrencies and stablecoins, as they explore different ways of conducting transactions.
“Across the EEMEA region it’s inspiring to see how small businesses keep pursuing ambitious dreams to grow into their full potential. Mastercard’s infrastructure enables them to continue embracing new technologies towards realizing those dreams. This research shows that many are embracing new technologies, adopting digital assets and prioritizing AI-powered security protection. We believe in the power of technology, continuous digital advancement and partnership to create progress, build trust and support their growth.” Said Onur Kursun, Executive Vice President, Commercial and New Payment Flows, EEMEA, Mastercard
The findings come as SMEs across the region contend with changing economic conditions and the practical challenges that can accompany expansion, from rising operating costs to supply chain disruptions.
Mastercard has also expanded its support for SMEs through its Built Small. Moving Strong. programme, launched earlier this year in response to instability in the Middle East. The initiative brings together financial tools and digital solutions aimed at helping small businesses maintain continuity while building resilience.
The programme forms part of Mastercard’s broader commitment to connect and protect 500 million people and small businesses on their paths to financial health by 2030.
For EEMEA’s small businesses, the findings suggest that growth is no longer being viewed simply through the lens of acquiring more customers or increasing sales. Security, AI and new forms of digital payments are increasingly becoming part of the infrastructure businesses need to navigate their next stage of growth.
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