Better practices based on better evidence

Insights

A synthesis of evidence and analysis from around the globe on how to most effectively support small business growth

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Delve into actionable insights gleaned from Strive Community’s own programs, and beyond. We are passionate about advancing this field, so that small businesses can be better supported by all of us. Search our insights library to find the latest insights or browse topics below.

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Capacity Building

The capacity of a small business can be strengthened through training, engagement with mentors or peers, and outsourcing. We explore how small businesses can build the capabilities they need to grow.

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Financial Services

Access to financial services is not enough to drive impact. We explore how to promote the meaningful use of relevant and affordable digital financial services that truly meet the nuanced needs of small businesses.

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Market Participation

Digital transformation has changed how businesses reach customers. Digital platforms enable more efficient transactions with larger pools of buyers and suppliers. See articles on this in our insights library.

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Business Operations

Digitizing processes can not only save small businesses time. It can also unlock data that can be used for improved decision-making and access to financial services. See our articles on this topic in our insights library.

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Latest Insight articles

Big week, small business: A proven model entered its second year and expanded beyond Czechia

What happens when a pilot initiative turns into a growing movement for small businesses across an entire country and begins inspiring activity beyond its borders? One year after the launch of Velký týden malých firem (Small Business Week) in Czechia, the initiative returned in its second year, building on the foundations laid in 2024 and going even further in scale, depth and impact while also strengthening collaboration across the Czech and Slovak markets.
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5 essential insights into the future of Europe’s small businesses

Key takeaways from the Mastercard Strive EU Summit in Brussels This blog post is written by Janet Shulist (Caribou) and Eva Lacinová and Katarina Kakalíková (Mastercard Center for Inclsuive Growth).
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A conversation with Opportunity Finance Network on CDFI innovation that scales, not just…

A conversation with Opportunity Finance Network on CDFI innovation that scales, not just experiments For small businesses, access to capital often determines whats possible and whats not from expanding a storefront, to upgrading online ordering systems, or making payroll through a slow season.
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Embedding credit to enhance retail business processes for small businesses in Kazakhstan: Lessons…

Embedding credit to enhance retail business processes for small businesses in Kazakhstan: Lessons from Beksar This blog post is written by Accion and Beksar.
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From curiosity to confidence: Bridging the AI adoption gap for small businesses

This blog post was written by IVÆKST.
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8 lessons on driving digital adoption of embedded services for small businesses

This blog post was written by Kseniia Glashkina, Chief Product Officer, and Marcus Schuite, Head of Marketing, at Bizcuit.
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