Small Business Summit

This conversation brings together senior Mastercard leaders to discuss how an integrated, enterprise‑wide approach drives small business growth at scale. Moderated by Ginger Siegel, the panel explores how client and product expertise, global brand and marketing leadership, and inclusive growth investments work together to expand access, amplify small business voices and create economic opportunity for entrepreneurs worldwide — delivering meaningful value for business owners, partners and policymakers alike.

This session explores the evolving landscape of New York City’s small business community, from creative entrepreneurs and makers to neighborhood mom‑and‑pop shops. Drawing on Mastercard’s latest insights, Max Owen and Roiana Reid will unpack how these businesses operate, earn and grow in today’s environment, along with the challenges they face in accessing capital, managing cash flow and engaging in digital commerce. Attendees will gain a clear, data‑driven view of the trends shaping NYC’s small business economy and the support needed to help these entrepreneurs thrive.

This session gives partners a clear look into how creators earn, from brand deals and affiliate revenue to digital drops, subscriptions and one‑off collaborations. Mastercard breaks down why these non‑traditional, fast‑moving income streams don’t fit legacy banking models and where the gaps and opportunities lie. Partners will walk away with a sharper understanding of creators as a high‑value small business segment and a clear sense of how flexible products, modern underwriting and real‑time support can help banks attract and retain Gen Z entrepreneurs.

This rapid-fire set of case studies spotlights the mom‑and‑pop shops that define New York’s neighborhoods. These entrepreneurs will share real stories about adapting to rising costs, shifting customer behaviors and the move toward digital tools. The goal: help partners understand the lived realities of NYC’s most iconic small businesses and spark ideas for solutions that strengthen neighborhood commerce.

This fast-paced rapid-fire deep dive features Mastercard experts sharing sharp insights on AI, cybersecurity, access to capital and alternative data. Each topic gets 5 minutes of expertise plus 10 minutes of Q&A. The Center for Inclusive Growth closes the session by connecting innovation to real‑world social impact.