Mastercard Dreamonomics Report Highlights SME Growth and Cybersecurity Priorities

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EEMEA) are prioritizing growth, new technologies and cybersecurity, according to Mastercard’s latest Dreamonomics Report.

The report examines how SMEs view growth and the changing business environment. It found that EEMEA businesses show strong interest in faster growth while also preparing for the risks and challenges that can come with expansion.

Stability Remains Important for SMEs

The research shows that 59% of SMEs in EEMEA prioritize stability and predictability over rapid growth. Globally, the figure stands at 70%.

Customer relationships are also a major priority. About 54% of EEMEA SMEs said they would rather develop deeper relationships with customers than focus on reaching the largest possible audience.

APNS Urges Government to Address Newspaper Industry Issues

The findings suggest that many small businesses are seeking sustainable growth while maintaining strong customer connections.

Cybersecurity Emerges as a Growth Priority

Cybersecurity is becoming an important part of SME growth strategies in the region.

According to the report, 78% of SMEs in EEMEA consider protection from cyber threats a priority. Meanwhile, 42% already use cybersecurity tools, the highest share among the regions surveyed.

The findings highlight growing awareness of the role digital security can play in protecting businesses as they expand their online operations.

SMEs Show Strong Interest in AI

EEMEA SMEs are also showing significant enthusiasm for artificial intelligence.

The report found that 77% of SMEs in the region are excited about AI’s potential for their businesses, compared with 70% globally.

AI is particularly attracting attention for fraud prevention and security. Nearly 49% of EEMEA SMEs identified these areas as promising applications, compared with 41% globally.

The region is also emerging as a leader in the adoption of digital assets. SMEs in EEMEA are more likely to use emerging payment methods, including cryptocurrency and stablecoins.

Mastercard Highlights Support for Small Businesses

Onur Kursun, Executive Vice President, Commercial and New Payment Flows, EEMEA, Mastercard, said the findings showed that small businesses were continuing to pursue growth while adopting new technologies.

He said Mastercard’s infrastructure supports businesses as they explore new technologies, digital assets and AI-powered security solutions.

Mastercard also highlighted its Built Small. Moving Strong. regional resilience and support program, launched earlier this year in response to instability in the Middle East.

The initiative aims to help SMEs manage rising costs, supply chain challenges and economic changes. It combines financial tools and digital support to help businesses maintain continuity and strengthen long-term resilience.

The programme is part of Mastercard’s broader commitment to connect and protect 500 million people and small businesses on their path to financial health by 2030.

As SMEs prepare for future growth, Mastercard said its network of insights, tools and solutions is designed to support payments, cybersecurity and business expansion across the region.