Mastercard, the globally acclaimed financial powerhouse, fortifies its commitment to promoting financial inclusivity and fostering sustainable development worldwide in an epoch-defining move. Marking its footprint across the Caribbean, the company’s strategic initiatives have translated into substantial socio-economic impact, amassing more than $800,000 in philanthropic contributions, celebrated on the globally significant occasion of World Population Day.
Mastercard’s ambitions embody a comprehensive vision of drawing 1 billion individuals and 50 million micro and small businesses into the digital economy by 2025. Its recent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) report was a testament to its resolve, showcasing its facilitation of growth opportunities for 27 million women entrepreneurs. This milestone, achieved ahead of its 2025 target, empowers these women to influence their local communities and businesses positively.
In the Caribbean region, Mastercard’s ESG endeavours were implemented through its alliances with cardholders, merchants, and issuers. Encouraging philanthropic contributions, the company showered donors with benefits from priceless experiences to exclusive merchandise.
In Puerto Rico, Mastercard teamed up with Plaza Las Americas, Plaza del Caribe, Dynamic Payments, and JD Entertainment to funnel resources towards Banco de Alimentos, a nonprofit organization battling hunger since 1988. Mastercard’s campaign, “Feeding the Present for a Bright Future: Priceless,” not only matched cardholder donations but also successfully financed 1.8 million school lunches across 78 municipalities, translating every single dollar into ten nutritious meals through Banco de Alimentos’ extensive food donation network.
Moreover, Mastercard leveraged the Taste Food Fest in Plaza Las Americas to launch a donation portal wherein cardholders could contribute to the Priceless Planet Coalition. Partnering with Conservation International, Mastercard set an ambitious target to plant 100 million trees worldwide by 2025. This initiative, backed by Plaza Las Americas and generous cardholders, gathered funds to plant 80,000 trees and rewarded contributors with exclusive merchandise and priceless experiences.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, Mastercard allied with the American Red Cross to aid recovery efforts in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Mastercard’s Send solution facilitated prompt emergency financial assistance in Puerto Rico. Further, Mastercard made a significant donation exceeding $75,000 to the Red Cross for damage evaluation, emergency aid distribution, and financial service.
Mastercard displayed its commitment to sustainability in the English-speaking Caribbean by conducting fundraising activities at the renowned Reggae Sumfest music festival in Jamaica. A silent auction at the inaugural Fintech Islands Conference in Barbados witnessed Mastercard rallying a bid for a priceless experience, the proceeds of which were donated to the Priceless Planet Coalition. In collaboration with cardholders and business partners, Mastercard’s collective efforts successfully amassed funds to plant an additional 166,000 trees.
“We believe in the power of collaboration and cohesion, involving governments, corporations, and individuals, to pave the path to a more sustainable future. Mastercard will continue to forge strategic alliances, understanding that the prosperity of communities is only meaningful when growth is sustainable, inclusive, and shared,” said Mayra Vivacqua, the Cluster Lead for Mastercard Caribbean.
Emphasizing the United Nation’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, the tech juggernaut reaffirmed its commitment to launching further initiatives and strategic partnerships. Mastercard continues to champion the cause of an inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable society, further cementing its status as a global change-maker.
Written by: William Trevan