EEMEA SMEs eye growth while putting cyber protection first: Mastercard report

City, Country: XX September 2026 — Small and medium-sized enterprises in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa are pursuing growth while preparing for the pressures that may come with new opportunities, according to Mastercard’s Dreamonomics Report.

The report presents a global view of the forces reshaping how SMEs view and approach growth. Its findings show that SMEs in the EEMEA region are among the most likely to prioritise faster growth, even at the cost of stability, and are also among the most likely to be using cybersecurity tools today.

According to the report, 59% of SMEs in EEMEA said they prioritise stability and predictability over fast growth, compared with seven in 10 globally. The research also found that 54% of SMEs in the region would prefer to build deeper customer relationships rather than reach as many customers as possible.

Cybersecurity has emerged as a key area of focus for SMEs in the region. The report said 78% of EEMEA SMEs prioritise protection from cyber threats, while 42% already use cybersecurity tools, the highest share among all regions surveyed.

The findings also indicate strong interest in new technologies. About 77% of SMEs in EEMEA said they are excited about the potential of artificial intelligence for their businesses, compared with 70% globally. Interest is particularly notable in fraud and security protection, where 49% of EEMEA SMEs see AI potential, compared with 41% globally.

SMEs in the EEMEA region are also more likely to use emerging payment methods, including cryptocurrency and stablecoins, the report said.

“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.

Earlier this year, in response to instability in the Middle East, Mastercard launched Built Small. Moving Strong., a regional resilience and support programme designed to help SMEs manage rising costs, supply chain issues and economic changes.

The programme has brought together a coordinated, ecosystem-led approach combining financial tools and digital enablement to help SMEs maintain continuity while strengthening long-term resilience. It also supports Mastercard’s commitment to connect and protect 500 million people and small businesses on their pathways to financial health by 2030.

As small businesses prepare for the next demands of growth, Mastercard said it brings a connected system of insights, tools and solutions to help SMEs power every payment, protect every step and propel every dream, supporting the realities of running and growing a business today.